Get Prepared: Santa Anas are Coming

Fire weather is on its way to Irvine on Sunday. Photo credit Marcus Kauffman

The low humidity and wind patterns forecast for this Sunday are expected to create red flag warning. In response, the Irvine Ranch Conservancy is getting ready to help avoid catastrophic wildfires. 

“Our fire watch preparation never ends, and we are as prepared today as we have ever been,” says Tony Pointer, Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s Fire Watch Manager. “Our 300 selfless volunteers are getting ready to take action as we speak and it makes a difference in reducing our risk of wildfire. We can help protect our communities through deterrence, quick reporting and communication.” 

Close coordination between Irvine Ranch Conservancy, Orange County Fire Authority, OC Parks, and the cities of Newport Beach and Irvine allow for real time monitoring for signs of wildfire. Fire Watch also provides a highly visible deterrent to arsonists and others who are careless with fire. The SCE Alert Wildfire Cameras allow trained volunteers to work from both the Fire Watch Operations Center in Irvine and from home.   

“Our partnership with IRC and Fire Watch allows OCFA to deploy our substantial resources early and aggressively,” says OCFA Fire Chief Brian Fennessy. “As importantly, it helps us to notify residents immediately in the event evacuation is necessary.” 

Irvine Ranch Conservancy and Fire Watch remind us all to be vigilant with the upcoming weather event and any time Santa Ana winds blow. Experts advise Irvinites to sign up for AlertOC.org and have a plan for wildfire events. 

Watch how to prepare for wildfires.

Learn about the Orange County Fire Watch program and the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks at LetsGoOutside.org.