Workshop to teach fire safety

Area residents can learn how to become fire-safe and fire-smart at a workshop to be put on by the Fallbrook FireSafe Council (FFSC), North County Fire Protection District (NCFPD) and Mission Resource Conservation District (MRCD), Wednesday, Nov. 1 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Fallbrook Public Utility District (FPUD) Building, 990 E. Mission Rd.

While it has been 10 years since the Rice Fire burned through this area, the devastating fires that recently decimated Northern California are a reminder how important it is to be prepared for the next wildfire that will eventually happen here.

At the workshop, residents of Fallbrook, De Luz, Rainbow and Bonsall will have the opportunity to hear from experts and ask questions that will help them become more prepared. The speakers will include a local insurance expert and representatives of the FFSC, NCFPD and MRCD.

Patty Koch, NCFPD deputy fire marshal, will explain how to create 100 feet of defensible space around one’s home, and also review new building codes that make homes more fire resistant.

Having an evacuation plan in place is also important so that topic will also be covered as well as programs that MRCD offers to homeowners which will also help with fire prevention. In addition, insurance agent Pete Bardeen will be explaining the kinds of insurance that homeowners should have to deal with the aftermath of a fire.

Now that fire season lasts year round, it is essential for all residents to plan ahead and educate themselves on how to increase the chances of not only their houses' survival but also their own.

Admission is free and light refreshments will be available at the workshop.