Dear Resident,

Chula Vista is a beautiful place to live, but it doesn't come without its risks. Fire season is now a year-round reality, requiring firefighters and residents to constantly be on heightened alert for the threat of wildfire.

Wildland fire, fueled by dry vegetation and driven by hot dry winds, are extremely dangerous and impossible to control. Many homes have been built and landscaped without a full understanding of the impact a fire could have on them. Very few people have adequately prepared their families for a quick evacuation, and many don't realize the potential consequences of choosing to ignore an evacuation order until it is too late.

It's not a question of “if” but “when” the next major wildfire will occur in San Diego County. The Chula Vista Fire Department (CVFD) takes every precaution to help protect you and your property from wildfire. However, in a major wildfire, there will not be enough fire engines or firefighters to defend every home in the early stages of the incident. That's why the most important person in protecting your life and property is not the firefighter, but you. Through advanced planning and preparation, we can all be ready for wildfire.

The Ready, Set, Go! Wildfire Action Plan will give you what you need to successfully plan ahead for a wildfire. To prepare your home, you’ll find tips on retrofitting with fire resistant features and creating the necessary defensible space. To prepare you and your family, the plan will provide the checklists and information you need so you can evacuate before the wildfire gets too close. The CVFD always recommends that you comply with evacuation orders resulting from wildfire. When it happens, you’ll be ready!

I hope you find this information to be helpful in creating a heightened awareness and a more fire-safe environment for you and your family.

Justin Gipson
Deputy Fire Chief / Fire Marshal