Prepare Your Property Against the Threat of Wildfire
BIG BEAR, CA/May 11, 2017– Get your CHIP together, then log into ThinIsIn.org for removal of your tree and brush trimmings. Fuel reduction through trimming vegetation overgrowth is one of the most important actions homeowners can take to reduce the threat of wildfire around their homes. High fire conditions will persist in the Big Bear Valley, and due to a wet winter season, residents should expect to see rapid growth of vegetation. Residents are asked to be diligent through the summer months by creating and maintaining a firewise property. This action supports the overall goal of being a firewise Big Bear Valley.
The popular curbside chipping program provided by Big Bear Fire Department begins early this year. Online registration opens May 15, 2017 at ThinIsIn.org. Crews will begin chipping after June 1, 2017. Fire Chief Jeff Willis stated “Many residents have built their homes and landscaped without fully understanding the impact that a wildfire could have on them. It is not a question of ‘if’ but ‘when’ the next major wildfire will threaten Big Bear Valley. The chipping program is free to residents and an easy way to remove tree and brush trimmings from their property.”
The chipping program has been highly successful helping residents create defensible structures. Advanced planning and preparation are key elements to ensuring your property is firewise. Be ready for the next wildfire by taking steps in advance of the summer and fall months ahead. Funding for the chipping program is provided through a CAL FIRE State Responsibility Area Fire Prevention Fund, the City of Big Bear Lake and your local Big Bear Fire Department.
For more information on the chipping program go to www.ThinIsIn.org. For creating defensible space, please contact the Big Bear Fire Department at www.BigBearFire.org or (909) 866-7566.
