In the heart of Bonner County, Idaho, a recent meeting brought together community members and officials to discuss a pressing issue: fire preparedness. As the summer months approach, the threat of wildfires looms large, and the Bonner County Civil Defense Resilience Team is urging residents to take proactive steps to safeguard their homes and families.

"Have your stuff together if you are in the woods," one speaker emphasized, highlighting the inevitability of fire impacting the area. The message was clear: preparedness is key. Residents were encouraged to organize their essentials for quick evacuation, avoiding the panic of searching for belongings when time is of the essence. The speaker shared harrowing experiences from past fires, including devastating incidents in California and Lahaina, Maui, where lives were lost due to unpreparedness.

The discussion also touched on practical measures for fire defense. Participants learned about the importance of maintaining a defensible space around their homes and keeping openings secured to prevent embers from igniting interiors. The speaker recounted personal experiences, including a close call with a lightning strike that ignited a fire in a master bedroom. "Having garden hoses are very helpful," he noted, sharing how he used one to combat a small fire while ensuring the safety of his family.

Innovative solutions were also presented, such as fire gels that can be applied to structures to retain moisture for several hours. "Think of it like jello that you're spraying on jello," the speaker explained, illustrating how these gels can provide an additional layer of protection during critical moments.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the message resonated with attendees. With wildfires becoming an increasingly common threat, the call to action was clear: preparation is not just a precaution; it is a necessity for survival in the face of nature's unpredictability. The Bonner County Civil Defense Resilience Team continues to advocate for community awareness and readiness, ensuring that residents are equipped to face whatever challenges may arise.