Colorado Springs: The next wildfire is coming. Be Ready. Set. Go

~ Colorado Springs, known for its stunning landscapes and desirable living, is facing a growing threat of wildfires. The city's unique terrain, with its mountains, forests, and open spaces, has always been a defining feature of the community. However, it also brings with it the reality of wildfire risk.

According to recent reports, this winter was exceptionally dry and warm in Colorado. In fact, it was the warmest winter on record for the state, with February being the warmest month. As March continues to break heat records, the National Weather Service has issued 27 Red Flag Warnings for the Pikes Peak region. This is more than double the average number for this time of year and close to the annual average of 30 to 35 warnings.

The changing climate has also led to changes in wildfire behavior. Stronger winds, drier fuels, and longer fire seasons have made fires more unpredictable and destructive than ever before. In just the last 12 years, five of the most destructive fires involving structures in the region have occurred.

For Colorado Springs residents, wildfires are not just a theoretical concept but a part of their story. The Waldo Canyon Fire in 2012 and Black Forest Fire in 2013 left lasting scars on the community. Hundreds of homes were destroyed, four lives were lost, families were displaced, and neighborhoods were forever changed. These events were painful but also served as a turning point for the city.

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Over the past decade, Colorado Springs has learned from these experiences and taken action to become more prepared for future wildfires. In 2019, the City and El Paso County established the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management to improve coordination between different jurisdictions. Additionally, voters approved $20 million for wildfire mitigation efforts which have already shown results with over 3,000 acres treated last year and partnerships with over 140 neighborhoods representing over 5,000 homes.

In 2023, the Pikes Peak Mutual Aid Strike Team was launched, bringing together seven regional fire agencies to form a coordinated response force. This partnership ensures a faster and more effective response to wildfires, regardless of jurisdictional lines.

The city is also utilizing innovative technology to enhance its wildfire preparedness efforts. This includes the Drone as a First Responder program for early detection and real-time intelligence, evacuation modeling technology for effective planning, and a Wind Driven Fire Plan that aligns with current realities.

In addition to these measures, Colorado Springs has also updated its Wildland-Urban Interface codes to require ignition-resistant materials, safer roofing, and fire-resistant siding in new constructions. However, Mayor Blessing Yemi Mobolade and Fire Chief Randy Royal emphasize that wildfire safety is not solely the responsibility of the government. It is a shared responsibility of every resident.

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To encourage community involvement in wildfire preparedness, Colorado Springs has launched the Ready, Set, Go! campaign. The three simple words carry a powerful message: preparation should not wait until smoke appears on the horizon but should begin now.

The first step is to be Ready by signing up for emergency alerts at Peak Alerts (peakalerts.org) and packing a go-bag with essential supplies for your household and pets. The next step is to be Set when there is a serious threat by monitoring fire conditions and following official updates. Finally, when it's time to Go, residents should evacuate immediately following first responders' instructions and staying informed until it's safe to return.

Resources and step-by-step guidance can be found at ColoradoSprings.gov/ReadySetGo. Mayor Mobolade reminds residents that resilience is not just built after disaster strikes but in the decisions made today. The most powerful protection against wildfires is a prepared community. So take a moment to make a plan, pack your bag, talk to your family, and check on your neighbors because being ready can make all the difference when wildfire threatens Colorado Springs.

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