Nevada County, CA — As the new year begins, the Wildfire-Ready Coalition of Nevada County is launching a Wildfire-Ready Resolutions campaign to help residents get ready for wildfire season—before summer arrives.
It encourages people to treat wildfire readiness like a New Year’s resolution: something you start early and work on a little at a time. Preparing for wildfires takes a lot of time. Starting now makes it easier to be ready by wildfire season.
“People make resolutions every January to improve their health or finances,” said Jo Ann Fites-Kaufman, Wildfire Ready Coalition President. “We’re asking people to add one more—taking steps now to make their homes and neighborhoods ready long before wildfire season arrives.”
What the Campaign Is About
Wildfire-Ready Resolutions focuses on five simple actions that make a real difference:
• Care for Our Forests –Thin and space trees so forests are healthier and fires don’t climb up and spread into the crowns.
• Strengthen Our Homes – Fix or replace older home features, like vents or gutters, to reduce ember risk.
• Adopt Your Road – Keep shared roads clear, wide and ready for evacuation.
• Be a Firewise Neighbor – Take action together, neighbors helping neighbors.
• Defend the First Five Feet – Reduce fire risk close to home, where embers collect.
The campaign includes easy-to-understand posters, social media posts, workshops, and local events. It is designed for everyone—from people just getting started to experienced Firewise leaders.
How to Get Involved
Residents are encouraged to:
• Pick one Wildfire-Ready Resolution
• Take a first step this winter
• Invite a neighbor to join
• Attend Wildfire Ready Coalition winter walks, workshops, or Firewise events
Why Winter Is the Right Time
Wildfire risk doesn’t go away in winter. But winter is the safest and best time to prepare.
“Winter is often overlooked,” said Fites-Kaufman. “It’s cooler, safer, and people have more time to do the work that really matters before fire season.” Pile burns are safer. Power tools don’t spark fires.
Serious Help—with a Little Fun
To keep things friendly and approachable, the Coalition is also sharing Wildfire-Ready Action bingo cards – one serious, and one humorous – that provide checklists of small actions that people can take during winter.
“Wildfire is serious,” said Fites-Kaufman. “But people are more likely to act when the message feels doable—and even a little fun.”
About the Wildfire-Ready Coalition of Nevada County
The Wildfire-Ready Coalition of Nevada County is a volunteer-driven nonprofit that supports Firewise Communities through education, coordination, and hands-on wildfire preparedness. The Coalition works across Nevada County to help residents reduce wildfire risk and build a safer future together.