Shasta Lake Wildfi re Information & Preparedness Guide - City of Shasta Lake
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Shasta Lake Wildfire
Information & Preparedness Guide
BULLETIN PHOTO / Ron Harrington
A SPECIAL PUBLICATION FROM
THE CITY OF SHASTA LAKE
Produced by the Shasta Lake Bulletin and the City of Shasta Lake
with additional information and graphics from Cal Fire and others
A PDF download of this publication is available at cityofshastalake.org
Wildfire prevention: We’re in this together
It is my pleasure to serve as Camp fire in Paradise and, closer to complete 245 abatement
the City Manager for the great to home, the Carr fire in 2018, the inspections and sent out over 136
community of Shasta Lake. Zogg fire in 2020 and last year’s notices.
I have worked for the City for Fawn fire. Both the Carr and Fawn Yes, we are serious about this.
over 18 years and it is an honor fires came close to entering our But we’re always looking for
to work with an incredible staff, city. They inflicted a lot of damage voluntary compliance and are here
experienced City Council, and with many homes lost and, in the to help these property owners
amazing community members. case of the Carr and Zogg fires, through the compliance process.
Shasta Lake is a special place. tragically many lives lost as well. We are excited to see what
When we think of great places to These fires were wake-up calls the future holds for our great City.
live and work, Shasta Lake has for all of us, both residents and We have some exciting projects
it all, from generous people and City officials, to do what we can on the horizon including the
affordable real estate to beautiful to hopefully prevent something Redding Rancheria Hotel and
parks and a walkable community. similar from happening in our City. Commercial Center development,
Not to mention - location, This publication hopes to the Downtown Revitalization
location, location. help with that goal. It includes Mixed-Use Project, over $2 million
But like many parts of the local stories on recent wildfires invested in our park system, and
country, the beautiful location of in our area, and fire prevention Jessaca Lugo so much more.
a place is often threatened by efforts that have been on-going to Shasta Lake City Manager But we need to protect this
potential disasters. minimize the effects of an out-of- beautiful area of ours in order
The East and the Gulf Coast control fire. There are also local $1.4 million to continue fuel to see that bright future come to
have to deal with hurricanes; stories and information from Cal reduction projects in the City. fruition. We ask that you please
in the South and Midwest it’s Fire and others on things you can The Shasta Lake Fire be diligent in doing what you can
tornadoes; and here in California do to try and help prevent a major Protection District has been to help keep our City safe and
it’s earthquakes... wildfire from spreading. And so working extremely hard on preventing the loss of property
And fires. much more in these 32 pages. working with private property and, more importantly, preventing
Unlike those other disasters, The City has been trying to do owners on bringing their property the loss of any lives from a fire.
which are mostly Mother Nature its part. We recently have been in compliance with the fire code. This is not a one person or
letting us know who is in charge, doing a lot of wildfire prevention, This process usually starts with one agency job, Shasta Lake is
fires are oftentimes the result of including receiving over $520,000 direct contact or a letter. If there is our home. It is everyone’s job to
actions caused by humans. in Cal Fire grant funding, treating no response, the district can begin protect our city and the resources
We’ve all seen the devastating over a hundred acres on both an abatement process. that surround it.
impacts of major fires in the state private and public lands. We also It should be noted in Fiscal We are completely “in this
in recent years, including the recently applied for an additional Year 2020 the district was able together.”
Contents
Page 3.....City Manager Introduction Page 17...What To Do If Trapped in a Fire
Page 4.....Thinking Ahead (Fire Prevention Efforts in City) Page 18...Illegal Camping Poses Major Wildfire Threat
Page 6.....Destructive California Fires a Wake-Up Call Page 20...Keeping an Eye on Arson
Page 8.....Be Prepared - Be Alert - Be Safe Page 22...Volunteer to be a Firefighter with SLFPD
Page 9.....City’s GIS Maps Help You Follow Progress of Fire Page 23...Door-Yard Burning Permits
Page 10...Have “Go-Bag” Ready and Sign Up for CodeRED Page 24...Frustration in Trying to Buy Fire Insurance
Page 12...Create Defensible Space Page 25...Top 10 Tips For Finding Residential Insurance
Page 13...Hardening Your Home Page 26...Fire Safety Plan Should Include Pets
Page 14...Fire Resistant Plants - And Plants to Avoid Page 27...Top 20 Destructive California Wildfires
Page 15...Plant and Tree Spacing Page 28...Safeguard Critical Documents and Valuables
Page 16...7 Ways to Reduce Risk of Home & Property Page 30...How to Replace Documents Lost Due to Fire
Being Fuel for Fire Page 31...List of Local Fuelbreak Reduction Contractors
Page 17...Pre-Evacuation Preparation Page 31...Agency Phone Numbers and Websites
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 3
THINKING AHEAD
Fire prevention is on the minds
of those working for the City - and
hopefully the public - all year long
PHOTO / City of Shasta Lake
Sugar Pine workers doing fuel reduction work by removing undergrowth off Lake Boulevard in the City of Shasta Lake.
By Aaron Williams mutual aid with other agencies such happened in November. And while
“We can’t control what as Redding Fire, Cal Fire and the fire season has stretched into fall
While some might think fire U.S. Forest Service. and winter months, those “off-peak”
season occurs only during Northern
happens, but we can An example of that cooperation months are actually when the City
California’s blistering hot, dry control how we respond is an agreement with the City and and staff are most busy with fire
summers, the truth is it never really Cal Fire allowing the larger agency mitigation projects.
and plan. It’s like playing
ends for City of Shasta Lake officials to attack fires in certain areas with Those municipal projects
and workers. chess - you have to be its more potent resource pool to include ensuring power lines are
From government officials to on- thinking ahead.” quell a small fire from turning into a a safe distance from trees, fuel
the-ground workers and even help firestorm. reduction projects and controlled
from inmate work crews, fire season “No one entity can do it on burns. Additionally, the City’s code
simmers on the front burner for the - Jessaca Lugo their own,” said Shasta Lake Fire enforcement team works with
City 12 months of the year. Shasta Lake City Manager Protection District Chief Dennis homeowners and property owners
“Wildfire is at the top of the list,” Beck. “We’re all working toward the to ensure their land is fire-safe,
said City Manager Jessaca Lugo. same outcome.” including the oft-heard mantra of 100
“We can’t control what happens, but fires and, most importantly, keeping And ultimately, Lugo said, that feet of defensible space.
we can control how we respond and its citizens safe. outcome is keeping citizens alive “It’s absolutely a year-round
plan. “A lot of the plan is disaster and protecting property. process,” Lugo said.
“It’s like playing chess - you have planning and is required to apply for “Losing residents is the worst- The City of Shasta Lake is
to be thinking ahead.” FEMA funding,” Lugo said, adding case outcome, but it’s also one of roughly 11 square miles surrounded
And those moves, sometimes identifying projects is key in order those things we learned from the by Shasta Lake (California’s largest
painfully, are the result of real-life to secure funding for mitigation Carr and Camp (fires),” she said. man-made lake) and Shasta Dam,
experience, such as last year’s Fawn projects. “As a city, if we lose homes, it takes Interstate 5, the Sacramento River
Fire and 2018’s deadly Carr Fire. And the scope of what the City years to recover. A lot of folks don’t and Redding to the south. The City
Most recently, the City has been must plan for is all-encompassing. come back.” of Shasta Lake owns and operates
working on a Local Hazard Mitigation In the summer, it’s ensuring the The lessons from the Carr and four power installations capable of
Plan, a comprehensive look at all Shasta Lake Fire Protection District Camp fires also are that fire season delivering electricity to more than
services and how each dovetails into is staffed and ready to respond isn’t limited to summer months, as 4,000 customers through roughly 75
lessening the severity of wildland to emergencies. It’s coordinating the blaze that decimated Paradise miles of transmission lines.
PAGE 4 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022
“We work year-round
in our 11 square miles.
Kevin Estabrook (Electric
Operations Manager)
tells us where to cut. If
someone reports it to
him, he’s on it. He’s very
proactive; more so than I
think anyone.”
- Greg McInstosh
Fuel Reduction Manager
City of Shasta Lake
Transmission lines are in the
forefront of those who live in fire-
prone California after trees falling
into Pacific Gas & Electric Company
power lines sparked the catastrophic
Camp Fire, which leveled Paradise
in 2018, and the million-acre Dixie
Fire last year.
“If you look at our mission
statement, it says ‘to provide access
to safe, reliable and environmentally
friendly energy,’” said James
Takehara, Electric Utility Director.
“There’s a reason for the order of
those words. We deal with electricity
and its delivery, but it’s critical we
operate our power lines in a safe
manner.”
Takehara said the miles of
transmission lines are routinely
checked for possible hazards and
that a tree-trimming company
contracted through the city has a Before and after photos of fuel reduction work on Pine Grove Avenue. PHOTOS / City of Shasta Lake
schedule of maintenance projects
throughout the year.
He added, however, that some “We work year-round in our And just as all these agencies
trees are ultimately the responsibility 11 square miles,” he said. “Kevin “Anything starting by work to thwart the threat of the next
of the property owner to take care Estabrook (Electric Operations big fire, the City also concerns itself
of and, with advance notice, the Manager) tells us where to cut. If the lake with north with individual land owners doing
City will temporarily disconnect an someone reports it to him, he’s on it. winds is going to hit the their part to ensure the safety of
electric service line to make it safe He’s very proactive; more so than I themselves and neighbors.
Lake Boulevard corridor
for contractors to do tree work on think anyone.” Both McIntosh and Beck tell tales
private property. And while clearing trees and fuel and come out of there of fire crews having to choose one
“We work on having a baseline from power lines is one part of the supercharged.” property over another due to how
of maintenance, but the challenge equation, McIntosh said creating fire those homeowners chose to clear
is that a healthy tree today might breaks around the city and working land, create defensible space and
become a hazard tomorrow,” he said. with individual property owners are - Chief Dennis Beck easements.
That’s why, in addition to on- the other two legs to the stool trying Shasta Lake Fire “You need to get out and cut
the-ground workers from the City, to lessen a potential fire’s severity if Protection District brush, put defensible space around
Takehara encourages the public to or when it strikes the city. your house and get rid of ladder
come forward and report something “I’m always looking at ‘Where’s fuels,” McIntosh said. “The time to
they think might become a concern. the biggest fuel load?’” McIntosh Beck adds: “Anything starting by do it is while the burn season is in
“If you miss one, it could lead said. “Well, that’s where we’re going the lake with north winds is going to effect.”
to a bad outcome,” he said, adding to work to put some fire lines.” hit the Lake Boulevard corridor and Beck said homeowners being
despite the recent PG&E troubles And both McIntosh and Shasta come out of there supercharged.” proactive makes it easier for fire
“power companies are expected not Lake Fire Protection District Chief That’s why the city works closely crews to get in and out of a parcel,
to spark fires.” Dennis Beck agree it’s north of the with the state and federal jurisdictions something they need if they come to
To ensure that doesn’t happen, city in the vicinity of Digger Bay to help eliminate much of the make a stand against an approaching
the cross-departmental cooperation (redesignated Wintu Bay Road in manzanita and chaparral that burns blaze.
comes into play, said Greg McIntosh, 2018) and the Centimudi Boat Ramp. hot and has the potential to turn “an “If you have hazards, like a limb
Fuel Reduction Manager for the City “It has the topography and fuel ordinary” blaze into something much that can fall and block our way out,
of Shasta Lake. load (to explode),” McIntosh said. larger. that’s a problem,” he said.
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 5
Carr, Camp, Zogg and
other destructive
California fires have
been a wake-up call
for Shasta Lake
BULLETIN PHOTO / Ron Harrington
A whispering cupid statue in River Ridge Park in the Keswick area sits among many of the homes that were lost during the 2018 Carr fire.
Fires are bigger, more frequent and happening year round
By Aaron Williams Beck pointed to the Tubbs Fire in - the fight to clear brush and trees in
Santa Rosa one year prior to the Carr “I started (firefighting) anticipation of where the next major
Shasta Lake Fire Protection Fire as the “lesson” that, given the 25 years ago and back blaze could occur.
District (SLFPD) Chief Dennis Beck, right mix of fuel availability, weather “It’s become a year-round job,”
as well as many in the firefighting conditions and timing, nowhere is then a million acre fire said Jessaca Lugo, Shasta Lake City
community, always knew the deadly essentially safe from a catastrophic was almost unheard of. Manager. “
2018 Carr Fire was a probability if wildfire. And to that end, both Beck and
not a likelihood. “And it’s only gotten worse,” he In 2020, we had five Lugo say it’s a multifaceted approach
Changing climate patterns that said, rattling off the 2019 Camp Fire, major fires (in Northern of city and citizenry working together
had cooked years of built-up fuel lightning complex fires throughout California) that could for mutual benefit.
combined with the right weather the Bay Area in 2020 and the 2021 The city’s departments work in
conditions and a spark were all it Dixie Fire as a few examples of how almost see each other.” concert to not only identify trouble
took to ignite a fire that, in the end, wildfires are growing in severity. “I spots in the 11 square miles of the
burned nearly 230,000 acres and started (firefighting) 25 years ago - Chief Dennis Beck city, but outside of the town as well.
forced the evacuation of 38,000 and back then a million acre fire was After all, a raging fire doesn’t care if it
people as it torched 1,600 homes almost unheard of. The sizes keep Shasta Lake Fire jumps from federal or state land into
and raced inside the Redding city getting bigger. Protection District the City of Shasta Lake proper.
limits. It tragically took the lives of “In 2020, we had five major fires “The Carr Fire activated the
eight people. (in Northern California) that could city to be proactive in applying for
“We in the fire community always almost see each other.” “It used to be that the worst was grant funding and doing vegetation
knew it could happen,” Beck said. As such, fire season, which used behind you in October and that’s management on private and city
“These fires, however, brought to span the notoriously sweltering simply not the case (anymore),” he owned properties,” Beck said.
it home to the general public, as summer months in the North State, said. “They’ve done a great job.”
horrifying as it is. now extends into winter months. And while the threat of wildfire From routine tree maintenance
“We already knew those lessons Case in point: the Camp Fire ignited remains even throughout the rainy around the 75 miles of power lines
(about wildfire racing into a city), but in mid-November and consumed the winter months, a “new” fire season crisscrossing the city to working with
the public learned something.” town of Paradise in less than a day. has taken root during those months state and federal agencies on mutual
PAGE 6 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022
“I’d be the last person to tell someone they
can’t live how they want, but it comes with
responsibilit y and liabilit y to make it as safe
as you can...I’ve had to tell folks I can’t save
your place because of the neighbor.”
- Chief Dennis Beck
Shasta Lake Fire Protection District
BULLETIN PHOTOS / Ron Harrington
The Flanagan Fire near Flanagan Road and North Beltline Road west of the City of Shasta Lake on March 4, 2022.
aid agreements for an expedited and Beck, who still marvels at how
more robust and organized response the Carr Fire approached the City of
to fires inside Shasta Lake, Beck Shasta Lake to the west and then sat
said city officials “get it.” on the ridge above the Sacramento
“All the things they’re doing help,” River, said, as many do, it’s not if but
he said. “It won’t make us bulletproof, when a fire will breach the city limits.
but buys that time to help people get His worst-case scenario starts to
out.” the north of the city on a blistering
Additionally, Bryan Trudeau, the summer stretch with gusty winds
city’s code enforcement officer, works from the north bearing down. With a
with the SLFPD to help homeowners ton of land - and fuel - surrounding
identify how they can work to not Shasta Lake (Shasta Reservoir),
only keep their homes safe, but help combined with those conditions, he
slow the spread - a move that might said makes for a potential nightmare.
allow fire crews to take a stand from “Anything starting by the lake,
allowing the blaze to advance farther Centimudi or Digger Bay (Wintu Bay
into the city. Road) with the heavy winds will come
“Most homeowners get it and do into the Lake Boulevard corridor
what they’re told to do,” Beck said, supercharged,” he said. “There’s 177
adding that Battalion Chief Roger mobile homes up there and a senior
Moses, the SLFPD fire prevention community and all those ravines will
officer, also works with property The Fawn Fire in September 2021 that took out a number of accelerate the fire. If it happens at
owners, although sometimes he has homes and buildings in the Mountain Gate area and burned to night, that decreases the amount of
to take punitive measures for non- the east side of Interstate 5 across from the entrance to the City time people might have to get out.”
compliance. of Shasta Lake. He said the city’s proactivity and
Both Beck and Greg McIntosh, other organizations willing to work
the city’s wildfire fuel reduction “Some do, some don’t. Some get moonscape.” in coordination have helped, namely
coordinator, said clearing it, some don’t,” McIntosh said. “You’ll Because if a fire crew has the efforts on brush clearing near
undergrowth is huge, but the biggest hear people say ‘I like my seclusion.’” to choose a property to station Digger Bay (Wintu Bay Road).
tip is to eliminate “ladder fuel” - And Fire Chief Beck understands themselves for a fire fight, he said “Everyone has checked their
flammable materials that can climb that sentiment, but adds lessening the choice is one that’s been tended egos and realized we’re trying to
from ground level onto overhanging the severity of a wildfire takes the and allows them an escape route do the same thing (save lives),”
trees or a structure. “Ladder fuel gets work of everyone. over an overgrown lot. Beck said. “The Carr Fire wasn’t
you in trouble,” Beck said. “I’d be the last person to tell “It’s the sickest feeling when unprecedented. We’ve had those
McIntosh also repeated the often- someone they can’t live how they you know you can’t do what you’ve conditions lots of times lately. It just
heard cry of 100 feet of defensible want, but it comes with responsibility trained for and have to pick your happened that we had a fire that day.
space around your property as well and liability to make it as safe as you battles,” he said. “I’ve had to tell folks “The last thing I want to do is tell
as ensuring gutters and eaves are can,” Beck said. “Keep grass cut and I can’t save your place because of people to be afraid. However, I do
free of leaves and debris. bushes trimmed. We don’t want a the neighbor.” want them to be prepared.”
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 7
PAGE 8 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022
cityofshastalake.org/gismaps
GIS maps on City of Shasta Lake website
let residents follow the progress of a fire
By Aaron Williams paper,” Hedemark said. “And they But, he warns, that there’s a level
“What makes it great is still do that when you’re boots on the of fallibility in looking strictly at a
The first thing most North State that while (it’s) not done ground, but it’s been impressive how blaze’s perimeter. Hedemark points to
residents do when they see a plume in real time, it’s updated all these fire agencies have embraced the recent Fawn Fire as an example of
or column of smoke rising above the technology.” where structures remained untouched
the horizon is try to pinpoint its frequently enough. It From drones to satellite imagery to inside a fire’s perimeter.
approximate location. makes it relevant to see a the GIS maps, he said they’ve worked “It has to be taken with a grain of
And while eyeballing a general more accurate depiction of with anything that makes it easier to salt,” he said. “It’s informative, but it
vicinity can be helpful, today’s where the fire is and where respond to an incident. shouldn’t be the primary tool.”
mapping capabilities enable both “The GIS maps are pulling fire That includes anticipating if a
firefighters and everyday citizens a it’s going.” incident data reported through the house has been burned or if you
better glimpse into where a fire has Integrated Reporting of Wildland-Fire should evacuate.
been and where it might be heading - - Devon Hedemark Information (IRWIN) service, daily “Always listen to the authorities,”
often just short of real time. GIS Coordinator fire perimeters from the National he added.
GIS - or Geographic Information Cit y of Shasta Lake Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), And while the GIS maps are front
Systems - mapping has become and “hot spots” detected by NASA and center during a fire incident, their
an invaluable tool in the firefighting satellites,” Hedemark said. “This use is also multifaceted throughout
arsenal as well as a multi-use to see a more accurate depiction of makes for a multilayer picture of the the year.
instrument available to cities to where the fire is and where it’s going.” fire’s history and, combined with Outside of imminent fire danger,
coordinate code enforcement and fire- Hedemark said firefighting crews fire science practices, a look at its residents are able to use the GIS maps
maintenance. at the command posts and in the possible future.” to see their parcel and neighboring
The City of Shasta Lake has such trenches still rely on paper maps, but Cal Fire also creates their own ones to help create defensible space
a tool for residents to follow in the that the digital versions can assuage GIS maps but they focus on incident buffer zones. City crews use the maps
event of a fire: cityofshastalake.org/ those who might have a home near a support, Hedemark said. to coordinate projects both within
gismaps. blaze. “Their maps are generally shared the 11 square miles limits and with
“The GIS maps show where it’s “Fire watchers, the media and during the daily Cal Fire briefings for neighboring jurisdictions.
been and where it’s going,” said residents tend to be the audience,” he the public and on their incident page “I honestly don’t know what we
Devon Hedemark, GIS Coordinator said of the GIS maps. during a fire event,” he said. “But, did before GIS,” said City Manager
for the City. “It’s become a vital tool. He added, however, that the use of they don’t produce the same map as Jessaca Lugo. “It feels like walking in
“What makes it great is that while technology, including GIS maps, has the City of Shasta Lake. The daily fire blind (without it). It’s an amazing tool
(it’s) not done in real time, it’s updated become commonplace for agencies. perimeters they produce are shared that has so many uses for us in the
frequently enough. It makes it relevant “When I first started, it was all on on the City GIS map.” city.”
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 9
Have ‘go-bag’ ready and sign up for CodeRED
By Aaron Williams “Obviously, if you’re on Digger
Bay (Wintu Bay Road) and there’s
You see smoke on the horizon. one way in and out, you’re either
You know the conditions are ripe going to evacuate or shelter in place,”
for a big fire. You know you should Sandbloom said. “But there might be
prepare to evacuate. multiple routes we’re asking people
But what do you do? Who gives to use to evacuate.”
the order to evacuate? Where should He said, obviously, major arteries
you go? like Lake Boulevard, Shasta Dam
Many of us in the North State Boulevard and Pine Grove Avenue
have had those internal “What would are ideal for funneling traffic away
I do?” conversations since 2018 from an active fire scene, but those
when the Carr and Camp fires raced routes are always determined on a
through Northern California towns in case-by-case basis. He pointed to
ways many thought impossible. the 2021 Fawn Fire when opening
And in the moment, things a shelter at Shasta College wasn’t
can seem daunting. But there are an option - even though the campus
public safety officials, both locally has often housed shelters - because
and statewide, who work on these there was potential for the blaze to
emergency situations. work its way toward the Old Oregon
Lt. Rob Sandbloom, Office of Trail compound.
Emergency Services coordinator for cell phone notification. You can sign “We don’t want to make a situation
Shasta County, said every scenario up for Code Red notifications www. Code Red is the modern worse by having to evacuate the
is different, but there are similarities shascom911 or by downloading the evacuation center,” he said.
version of the reverse
in emergencies. Apple or Google Play app on your Sandbloom added that the
“The first thing that happens is 911 calls and is only rise of social media also muddies
phone. You can also view more
first-responders getting to the scene information before you sign up at available to those who emergency situations as inaccurate
and determining what’s going on and www.onsolve.com/landing/sign-up- sign up for the cell phone information can often be spread.
what needs to be done,” Sandbloom for-codered-emergency-alerts. notification. “We always “If the information is accurate,
said. “Fire, flood, active shooter, the “We always tell people to sign social media is a great platform,” he
skeleton and reasoning are the same
tell people to sign up,” said, adding, “if it’s not, it’s really not
up,” he said.
- assess the scene and determine said Lt. Rob Sandbloom, helpful.”
And Sandbloom said before you
what needs to be done to control the get the order to go, it’s time to start Office of Emergency And while emergency personnel
scene and keep the public safe.” loading a “go-bag” with things you’re Services coordinator are busy working on the situation,
He said in the event of a fire, fac- going to need for the short- to near- for Shasta County. they also understand the need to
tors like size, weather and direction future. inform the public of what’s going on.
are weighed in whether an evacua- “There are several things you “Just like the Code Red is a good
tion or shelter in place order is given. should have ready to go when you ask ‘Where’s the dog?’” way to get information out, if it’s a
“Everything is fluid,” he added. get that order to evacuate,” he said. He said having a box of things larger incident, the command team
But when an evacuation is Water, food, important - and having a checklist in that box will have a PIO (Public Information
needed, the authorities will send documents, clothes, medications, - is a great way to ensure you don’t Officer) working to give updates,” he
out a Code Red notification with phone chargers are among the forget anything in a moment of panic. said.
instructions for residents. things to have loaded. He also said knowing your
Code Red is the modern version “And it sounds silly, but don’t neighborhood and multiple exit 211 - A free, 24/7 phone service
of the reverse 911 calls and is only forget the dogs and kids,” he said. routes is something you should know In addition, Sandbloom said
available to those who sign up for the “You don’t want to drive away and in advance. calling 211 is also a great resource,
especially if there’s an active
emergency.
“Usually, they activate it for a
bigger, long lasting event,” he said.
While 911 provides emergency
assistance, 211 is designed to
provide information and referrals to
health and human services and other
social assistance programs as well
as for those affected by an incident
such as the Carr fire.
For example, personnel manning
the lines are able to provide
information about the incident,
including evacuations.
“They’re coordinating with fire
personnel, law enforcement and
public works,” Sandbloom said. “211
is a great avenue because they have
ReadyForWildfire.org all the information and it doesn’t bog
down 911.”
PAGE 10 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022www.shascom911
1. Use your Google, Facebook or Twitter credentials Sign up for
to create an account for a quick log-in process.
2. Include multiple points of contact to ensure
public safety officials will be able to reach you in an
emergency. at
3. Opt-in to receive general notifications to receive www.shascom911
community bulletins. or by downloading
4. Make sure you keep this information up to date, the Apple or
especially if you move. Google Play app
5. Need step-by-step instructions? View our on your phone
registrations guide.
When seconds count,
be fully informed and
continuously updated
Register for
Public safety officials in your area are making strides to better
protect you and your community with the CodeRED emergency
notification system.
With CodeRED, state and local agencies can deliver geo-
targeted, time-sensitive information to individuals who have
registered to receive alerts.
Notifications can be sent via email, SMS, voice, mobile app push
notifications, IPAWS and more depending on the severity of the
situation.
Watch the video at:
onsolve.com/landing/sign-up-for-codered-emergency-alerts
for an overview of what CodeRED can do for you, your family and
your community.
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 11Create defensible space, eliminate ‘ladder effect’
By Aaron Williams
Nothing is 100 percent. But fire
experts say you can increase your
odds of having your house survive a
wildfire by taking certain preventative
steps.
First and foremost is creating
defensible space - removing flammable
vegetations from at least 100 feet
around your structure.
This doesn’t mean living in a
moonscape, but rather ensuring your
property has a fire break surrounding
it.
According to Cal Fire, creating
defensible space around your home
and other structures “not only provides
the greatest chance for survival, it’s
also required by California law.”
In addition to creating defensible
space, fire experts also say clearing
low-lying vegetation, removing wood
piles from against the house or
structure and eliminating the “ladder
effect,” vegetation that has a chance
to climb on to your house are all
manageable steps to increasing fire
safety.
“It looks like it’s here to stay,” said
registered landscape architect Michael
Lander about the threat of wildfire
encroaching anywhere in the North
State. “Just thinking ahead about what
can burn near your house and trying
to minimize that is helpful. There is no
fireproof plant.”
But, he said, there are plants that
are better in fire prone areas … as well
as ones to avoid.
Lander said juniper, rosemary and
pines should be used sparingly as their
resin burns hot. He said moisture-rich
plants are preferable, but sometimes
are the thirstiest.
“You just really want to keep things
away from the house and not plant in
huge quantities,” Lander said.
He also recommends forgoing
wood-based mulch, opting instead for
inert material like rock.
“I don’t try to put anything
combustible near the house,” he adds.
“It’s almost better to keep paving
around the house.
“I think people are really starting to
become aware of those things.”
There are resources available,
including graphics depicting defensible
space, on the Cal Fire website, www.
fire.ca.gov, as well as plenty of web
pages dedicated to the best things to
plant around your house.
Tips for increasing fire safety 3. Cut back overhanging tree vegetation within 30 feet immediately feet from all structures and remove
around your house branches from driveways and access surrounding your home. vegetation within 10 feet of wood piles
1. Create 100 feet of defensible roads 6. Remove lower tree branches at 9. Ensure eaves and areas where
space around property 4. Remove dead leaves and least six feet from ground wildfire embers might land are debris
2. Make sure your house address needles from roof and gutters 7. Landscape with fire-resistant free
is visible from the street, especially at 5. Create “Lean, Clean and Green plants 10. Keep trees trimmed at least 10
night Zone” by removing all flammable 8. Stack wood piles at least 30 feet from chimney
PAGE 12 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022HARDENING YOUR HOME
ReadyForWildfire.org
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 13There is no fireproof plant, but here is a list of Fire-Resistant Groundcovers
fire resistant and non-resistant plants. These lists
are probably not all inclusive. • Ajuga (Ajuga sp.)
Juniper, rosemary and pines should be used • Bellflower (Campanula sp.)
sparingly as their resin burns hot. Moisture-rich plants • Blue star creeper (Pratia pedunculata)
are preferable, but sometimes are the thirstiest. • Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
FIRE RESISTANT PLANTS You just really want to keep things away from the • Dwarf periwinkle (Vinca minor)
house and not plant in huge quantities. • Gazania (Gazania sp.)
Also recommend forgoing wood-based mulch
• Lantana (Lantana sp.)
AND PLANTS TO AVOID
and opt instead for inert material like rock.
• Manzanita (Arctostaphylos sp.)
I don’t try to put anything combustible near the
• Myoporum (Myoporum parvifolium)
home. It’s almost better to keep paving around the
• Periwinkle (Vinca major)
house.
• Red Apple (Aptenia cordifolia)
Also, just because a plant is fire resistant does
• Rosea ice plant (Drosanthemum hispidum)
not mean it is appropriate for all locations. Water,
soil and sun requirements, as well as size and • Scaevola (Scaevola sp.)
maintenance of plants, should be considered.
- Michael Lander Fire-Resistant Perennials
Registered Landscape Architect
• Bear’s breech (Acanthus mollis)
Fire Resistant Plants • Bergenia (Bergenia sp.)
• Bird of paradise (Strelitzia sp.)
Fire-Resistant Trees • Blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium bellum)
Tree selection should be done with care, since • Calla lily (Zantedeschia sp.)
they will be in your garden for years. • Canna (Canna hybrids)
• African sumac (Rhus lancea) • Coral bells (Heuchera sp.)
• Ash (Fraxinus sp.) • Coreopsis (Coreopsis sp.)
• California sycamore (Platanus racemosa) • Daylily (Hemerocallis sp.)
• California bay laurel (Umbellularia californica) • Douglas iris (Iris douglasiana)
• Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis) • Dusty miller (Centaurea cineraria)
• Cork oak (Quercus suber) • Euryops daisy (Euryops sp.)
• Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) • Foxglove (Digitalis sp.)
• Elm (Ulmus sp.) • Geranium (Pelargonium sp.)
• Flowering Cherry (Prunus sp.) • Lavender (Lavandula sp.)
• Honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) • Lily-of-the-Nile (Agapanthus sp.)
• Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) • Lily turf (Liriope sp.)
• Maidenhair tree (Ginkgo biloba) • New Zealand flax (Phormium sp.)
• Manzanita (Arctostaphylos.) • Penstemon (Penstemon sp.)
• Palo Verde tree (Parkinsonia sp.) • Red-hot poker (Kniphofia hybrids)
• Paperbark Tree (Melaleuca sp.) • Sea pink (Armeria sp)
• Purple leaf plum (Prunus cerasifera) • Wallflower (Erysimum sp.)
• Maple (Acer)
• Strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo) Plants to Avoid
• Sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua)
• Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) Many plants contain volatile oils, wax or pitch
• Tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) which burn readily and can cause embers to fly
• Victoria Box (Pittosporum undulatum) with the prevailing winds—spreading a fire quickly.
• Western redbud (Cercis occidentalis) Here are a few plants to remove or avoid
• White alder (Alnus rhombifolia) planting in landscapes in fire-prone areas.
• Acacia (Acacia sp.)
Fire-Resistant Shrubs • Algerian ivy (Hedera canariensis)
• Arborvitae (Thuja sp.)
• California lilac (Ceanothus sp.) • Artemesia (Artemesia sp.)
• Bronze loquat (Eriobotrya deflexa) • Bamboo (Bambusa, Phyllostachys and others)
• Flannel bush (Fremontodendron sp.) • Cedar (Cedrus sp.)
• Indian hawthorn (Raphiolepis indica) • Cypress (Cupressus sp.)
• Lantana (Lantana sp.) • Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.)
• Lilac (Syringa vulgaris) • Fern Pine (Podocarpus sp.)
• Matilija poppy (Romneya coulteri) • Fir tree (Abies sp.)
• Mock orange (Pittosporum sp.) • Fountain grass (Pennisetum sp.)
• Monkey flower (Mimulus sp.) • Hopseed bush (Dodonea viscosa)
• Pineapple guava (Feijoa sellowiana) • Juniper (Juniperus sp.)
• Pink escallonia (Escallonia sp.) • Mexican fan palm (Washingtonia mexicana)
• Rockrose (Cistus sp.) • Miscanthus (Miscanthus sp.)
• Rose (Rosa hybrid) • Pines (Pinus sp.)
• Shiny xylosma (Xylosma congestum) • Rosemary (Rosmarinus sp.)
• Silverberry (Elaeagnus pungens) • Spruce (Picea sp.)
PAGE 14 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022Some of the fire resistant
plants, flowers & shrubs
For more, see the list on page 14,
or visit your local nursery, landscape
contractor or county’s UC Coopera-
tive Extension service for advice on
fire-resistant plants that are suited
for our area.
The COREOPSIS PLANT is popular
due to its tolerance to a wide variety
of soil types, Its fire safe, making it the
perfect addition to your landscape.
FRENCH LAVENDER is a fire
resistant plant that thrives in dry
growing conditions. This low-
key plant will add beauty to your
defensible space landscape.
The CALIFORNIA LILAC is the
name of this colorful shrub. This fire
resistant plant is drought tolerant
and is covered with small pink and
purple flowers when in bloom.
The fire resistant RED MONKEY ReadyForWildfire.org
FLOWER yields beautiful bright red
blossoms. This evergreen shrub is
also drought tolerant and a California
native species.
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 15PAGE 16 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022
What To Do
If You Become
ReadyForWildfire.org Trapped
While in
Your Vehicle
• Stay calm
• Park your vehicle in an area
clear of vegetation.
• Close all vehicle windows
and vents.
• Cover yourself with a wool or
cotton blanket or jacket.
• Lie on vehicle floor.
• Use your cell phone to
advise officials - Call 911.
While on Foot
• Stay calm.
• Go to an area clear of
vegetation, a ditch or
depression on level ground if
possible.
• Lie face down and cover up
your body.
• Use your cell phone to
advise officials - Call 911.
While in
Your Home
• Stay calm and keep your
family together.
• Call 911 and inform
authorities of your location.
• Fill sinks and tubs with cold
water.
• Keep doors and windows
closed, but unlocked.
If there is an evacuation due to a fire • Stay inside your house.
PLEASE DON’T LEAVE YOUR SPRINKLERS ON
X
• Stay away from outside walls
and windows.
OR YOUR WATER RUNNING Source: Cal Fire
It can affect critical water pressure needed by firefighters ReadyForWildfire.org
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 17PHOTOS / City of Shasta Lake
Above and right, some of the illegal
campsites that crop up around the
city of Shasta Lake. City officials
say these camps pose a real threat
with the possibility they could spark
a wildfire. They said responsibility
also lies with property owners who
they said need to do their part by
removing brush (such as in the
photo on the left) so that the illegal
camps are not hidden from view.
Illegal camping is not only an eyesore, it’s also a
public safety issue that poses a major wildfire threat
By Aaron Williams “Typically, when these camps are We’re always pushing the ball uphill,
set up it’s on private property,” said Lt. “There are ordinances but we’re trying to make a difference.”
Illegal camping isn’t merely an Tyler Thompson of the Shasta County Lugo adds that most who are
eyesore, it can also be a public safety Sheriff’s Office. that prohibit things like homeless aren’t purposely looking
issue. He said once contact is made, the a fire without a permit to start a fire, but carelessness and
While the city of Shasta Lake does officers let the individuals know they’re conditions in the North State that are
its best to work with the homeless on private property, they’re trespassing or areas deemed unsafe ripe for a blaze make policing it a
population, it remains illegal to camp and need to move along. to camp. Every time we priority.
on private property. And encampments “We’ll give them time to pack their “I don’t think, unless it’s an arsonist,
on public lands often bring about a belongings and hopefully take their make contact, we offer someone is wanting to start a fire to
myriad of problems from garbage and trash and then go back later and assistance and let them lose property and lives, but the winds
litter entering the waterways to the check,” Thompson said. can pick up or something isn’t tended
possibility of sparking a wildfire. Lugo said responsibility for this know there are places carefully,” she said about the potential
“At the end of the day, there are also lies with the property owner. available. We’re always for a situation to escalate.
resources available for an individual She said if you are an undeveloped The City Manager said it’s up to
struggling to find shelter,” said City property owner, you should help out pushing the ball uphill, individual citizens to keep an eye out
Manager Jessaca Lugo. “But we also by removing brush that can be used to but we’re trying to make for things out of the ordinary and report
have to keep the safety of our 10,000 hide illegal encampments. Businesses them.
citizens in mind. that have landscaping that has grown a difference.” Thompson said he and his fellow
“In Shasta Lake we have zero tall should also take these steps, and deputies are proactive in patrolling
tolerance for unpermitted open fires?” trim to eliminate the ability of someone - Lt. Tyler Thompson areas where illegal camping is known
Lugo said the risk of an open fire hiding on their property. to happen and that often those spots
igniting a larger blaze that threatens If individuals are on public lands, Shasta County are the most vulnerable for a fire to get
property and lives is real, especially as Thompson said it’s a little different Sheriff’s Office started.
the West grows drier. approach. Court battles have raged in “Oftentimes, they set up camp in
“We just can’t risk it,” she said. the past few years as public officials the brush to conceal themselves,”
The City Manager said the Shasta try to battle a growing homeless things like a fire without a permit he said. “With brush and shrubs and
County Sheriff’s Office actively patrols population while homeless advocates or areas deemed unsafe to camp,” grass around that’s a problem. Anytime
the city’s roughly 11 square miles, work to ensure homelessness isn’t Thompson said. “Every time we make the conditions are for high fire activity,
paying attention to areas where illegal criminalized. contact, we offer assistance and let it’s dangerously close (to the next big
campsites have been known to pop up. “There are ordinances that prohibit them know there are places available. one).”
PAGE 18 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022Report Unlawful
Camping
in the City of Shasta Lake
It is unlawful and a public nuisance for any person
to sleep or camp, to occupy camp facilities, or
use camp paraphernalia in areas not limited to
public right-of-way, public trails or parks,
private unimproved property, &
private property without owner consent.
Chapter 8.10 of the City of Shasta Lake Municipal Code
Section 8.10.030
Report Illegal Encampment
530.245.6096
We need the public’s help to keep our community safe. Let’s do our part and report!
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 19Keeping
an eye out
for arson
By Aaron Williams A former college professor, Gary
In the past 18 months, there Stephen Maynard, was charged
have been more than a dozen “If an arsonist is convicted, they’re with taking part in an “arson spree”
suspected cases of arson in the
Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
sent to state prison or placed on near the Dixie Fire that burned in
five Northern California counties,
And with the tinder-dry probation depending on the severity. including Shasta. He faces up to 20
conditions persisting in the North years in prison and a $250,000 fine
State, people should not only take They’re also required to register as according to media accounts.
steps to mitigate the chances of fire “If an arsonist is convicted,
damaging their property, but, law an arson offender, much like a sex they’re sent to state prison or placed
enforcement officials say, keep an on probation depending on the
alert eye out for anything suspicious.
offender, because people who start severity,” Bridgett said. “They’re
“Fire has become more serious
and they’ve become larger in these
fires are inclined to do so again.” also required to register as an arson
offender, much like a sex offender,
drought conditions,” said Shasta because people who start fires are
County District Attorney Stephanie inclined to do so again.”
Bridgett. - Stephanie Bridgett And while the majority of
And that’s why Bridgett said her wildfires start due to acts of nature
office, as well as law enforcement,
Shasta County District Attorney or accidents, the prospect of an
aggressively prosecute those who arson-started fire is especially
might purposefully start a fire. troubling to the district attorney and
“With any crime, the punishment of arson-started fires in Northern and injured three firefighters in late law enforcement.
should fit the crime and an arsonist California - the Fawn Fire and an September of 2021. Alexandra “The Carr Fire started due to a
who causes property loss and loss incident inside the already burning Souverneva, 31, of Palo Alto, was wheel malfunction,” said Shasta
of life are likely to see it rise to the Dixie Fire. charged with starting the Fawn County Sheriff’s Lt. Tyler Thompson.
felony level and a prison sentence,” The Fawn Fire burned more Fire. As of March, her case was “That stuff happens, but we live in a
she said. than 8,500 acres, destroyed 185 pending a mental evaluation of her world where we are ripe for wildfire.
There are two recent examples buildings in the Mountain Gate area competency to stand trial. It’s a big safety concern.”
PAGE 20 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022BULLETIN PHOTOS / Ron Harrington
The Fawn Fire burned more than 8,500 acres, destroyed 185 arrested for allegedly starting the Fawn Fire. As of March, her case
buildings in the Mountain Gate area and injured three firefighters in was pending a mental evaluation of her competency to stand trial.
late September of 2021. Alexandra Souverneva, 31, of Palo Alto, was
“An arsonist not only
impacts those who lose
homes, property or, God
forbid, lives, it affects the
entire community.”
- Stephanie Bridgett
Shasta County District Attorney
Both Thompson and Bridgett say
being aware of your neighborhood
surroundings is one of the best aids
for law enforcement.
“We call it being a good witness,”
she said. “If you see something Alexandra Souverneva
out of the ordinary, it might not rise
to the level of needing to calling getting your phone or video camera
the police, but take note of what to shoot footage from your property
the person looks like (or their car are all tools to help keep what might
model). be a small fire from turning into
“Something might happen and something catastrophic.
a few hours later an officer might “An arsonist not only impacts
knock on your door. If you’re paying those who lose homes, property or,
attention, you’re really helping law God forbid, lives, it affects the entire
enforcement.” community,” she said. “There’s poor
Bridgett said reporting suspicious air quality, environmental damage,
persons, calling 911 if you see and loss of recreational activity and
smoke and, should the need arise, that can equal years of impact.”
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 21Volunteer
to be a
firefighter
The need is there in Shasta Lake for Reserve Firefighters
From the Shasta Lake Fire Protection District computer-based learning and covers State required
new hire subjects.
The Shasta Lake Fire Protection District has a long The second level of training qualifies the Reserve
history of service to the community. Firefighter to respond on apparatus to calls.
In the beginning, the District was called Central Valley The third level completes the requirement to be a
Fire Department. It was formed in the early 1940s by basic firefighter.
the men working on Shasta Dam. The Central Valley All training after that is annual recurrent training.
- now Shasta Lake Fire Protection District - firefighters Minimum time commitment is two 24-hour shifts per
have served the community and protected its citizens. month at their convenience.
Over the past two decades the level of volunteerism For each 24-hour shift the reserve receives a nominal
has been on a steady decline for all organizations. fee of $100, for fuel and non-issued gear.
That decline, coupled with the ever-increasing training All gear for responding is provided by the District.
requirements, make it difficult to keep volunteer If someone is inspired to give back to their community
firefighters. The need is still there and the following is they can start by picking up an application at the main
the process for someone wanting to become what the Shasta Lake Fire Protection District building located at
Fire District now calls a Reserve Firefighter. at 4126 Ashby Court, Shasta Lake, or online at www.
First, no experience is needed. shastalakefpd.org.
Fill out application and provide your DMV print out. For more information, visit the website or call the
If accepted, the first training is assigned using SLFPD at 530-275-7474.
PAGE 22 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022Door-Yard
Burning
Permits No
Fee
Available Online at
www.shastalakefpd.org
Door-yard burning within the City of Shasta Lake is allowed from Nov. 1 - April 30 ONLY
Shasta Lake Fire Burning Regulations
1. Dry vegetation may be burned from November 1 thru April 30 ONLY.
You may only burn dry, cut vegetation from your yard.
2. A completed permit must be present with you during any burn operation.
3. Burn only on designated burn days. Burning days within the designated
months are established by the Shasta County Air Quality Management
District (AQMD). You must call AQMD at 530-224-8777 each day after
9:15 a.m. to determine if burning is permitted on that day (no burning
allowed prior to 10 a.m.).
4. No burn barrels or burning containers are allowed for door-yard burning.
5. You may not burn paper, cardboard, garbage, construction materials,
animal or human waste, fabric or clothing, plastic or rubber items,
roofing or tar materials or any other manmade products. Please note
that the burning of any item which creates a public nuisance is
prohibited.
6. Maximum pile size 4-foot diameter.
7. Areas within 10 feet of the outer edge of the pile are maintained free
and clear of all flammable material, vegetation, and any structures.
8. Adult (18 years or older) in attendance with a water supply and shovel
until fire is dead out.
9. All fires must be extinguished (dead-out cold) by 5 p.m. No exceptions.
10. No burning shall be undertaken unless weather conditions (particularly Door-Yard Burning Permits also available at the
wind) are such that burning can be considered safe.
11. Mechanically created piles must be inspected by Shasta County Air Shasta Lake Fire Protection District
Quality Management District and the Shasta Lake Fire Protection
District prior to burning. Main Station - 4126 Ashby Court, Shasta Lake
12. Violations of any of these rules may result in a citation or further legal
action from the Fire Department or other agency. 530-275-7474
2022 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • PAGE 23California homeowners grapple with buying fire insurance
State hopes proposed “If I could speak into a
regulations will help megaphone it would be
drive down costs to say ‘if you’re going
to make an offer (on a
for consumers home), call your insurance
agent before (you do so).’
By Aaron Williams
You might not think about it… That answers whether
until you need it. your insurance is going to
Homeowners insurance is be affordable and can take
required for those carrying a bank-
backed mortgage and can be the some of the panic out of
silver lining for those who lose their realizing you can’t afford
house in a wildfire. the premiums.”
But as the number of
catastrophic fires and the prolonged
threat of megafires grows, insurers - Zach Walsh
have raised rates and, in some Zach Walsh Agency
instances, dropped people in high- Redding
risk areas.
“I don’t see the pendulum
swinging back,” said Zach Walsh
of Zach Walsh Agency – Farmers
Insurance in Redding.
To that end, the California
Department of Insurance has taken
steps to mitigate the burden of rising
costs and threats of cancellation.
Insurance Commissioner Ricardo
Lara said earlier this year in a press
release “With more Californians
rolling up their sleeves and reaching
into their own pockets to protect
their homes and businesses,
insurance pricing must reflect their
efforts. My new regulations will help
encourage a competitive insurance
market for all by putting safety calling your insurance agent while expensive, he said, adding that cost is really enough to replace
first and driving down costs for house hunting so he or she can other supplemental policies can help everything to do with your home.”
consumers.” run the property address and give bridge that gap. Walsh said he encourages his
The proposed regulations, you a ballpark figure as to what the “For some folks that’s the only clients to check in periodically,
which could be in effect by the insurance will cost. option and it’s not cheap,” he said. and will often seek them out for an
height of the fire season, would “If I could speak into a While following defensible space update.
require insurance companies to megaphone it would be to say ‘if measures and other mitigation “Our clients have been more
factor “wildfire safety actions into you’re going to make an offer, call solutions to protect their property receptive over the past few years
their pricing of residential and your insurance agent before (you can help with insurance costs, because they’ve seen the horror
commercial coverage.” Additionally, do so),’” Walsh said. “That answers homeowners are encouraged to be stories of people who’ve lost homes
the regulations would provide more whether your insurance is going to proactive concerning their policies. or have been underinsured,” he
transparency concerning their be affordable and can take some of Shasta Lake City Manager said. “You should check things
wildfire risk score. the panic out of realizing you can’t Jessaca Lugo knows firsthand constantly. For example, in the last
Walsh said there are ways afford the premiums.” how important not only having 24 months material costs have gone
to keep, or in some cases find, If you find you’ve been turned homeowners insurance is, but sky high and that means rebuilding
insurance that’s affordable. This down by companies, the California ensuring your coverage will protect values go up substantially.”
might include raising your deductible Fair Plan is another option. your total loss. Her parents lost their The state’s Department of
or bundling home and auto together. Funded by insurance carriers, Happy Camp house in last year’s Insurance website has a trove of
He even said if Farmers can’t the Fair Plan isn’t a state-run Happy Camp Complex Fire. helpful links for those with questions
find a workable policy, he would entity, but rather it’s funded by the “When you need it, you really ranging from tips for wildfire
send a client to agent friends who insurance carriers. need it,” she said. claimants, evacuation checklists,
might be able to accommodate “They put money into a pool to Her parent’s plight made her take and tips for finding residential
them. help fund this company and their job a look at her own policy. insurance to a claims guide.
“I want to see them in the is to insure any type of home - from “You kind of forget about it if Additionally, there’s a Home
house,” he said. “You don’t want on top of a mountain in Lakehead to you’ve lived somewhere for a long Insurance Finder page that allows
insurance to be the reason the deal the middle of Redding,” Walsh said. time,” she said. “It’s important to people to get a list of companies
gets killed.” However, there are limitations take a (periodic) look at your policy by entering their insurance type
To that end, he recommends on coverage and it can be and make sure the replacement needed based on their zip code.
PAGE 24 • SHASTA LAKE WILDFIRE PREVENTION • 2022You can also read
