By CHIEF MICHAEL BURKEY AND NCAC CHAIR CHRISTINA GALLOWAY
Throughout March, Cambria Community Services District, Cambria Fire Department staff, volunteers and disaster relief organizations will host meetings at the Veterans Memorial Hall (1000 Main Street) for all designated areas (listed below) to discuss emergency operations. This will include discussions on neighborhood-specific preparedness, reviewing individualized evacuation plans, reviewing best practices for reducing fire risk around properties, and one-on-one dialogue with experts.
Cambria consists of distinct topography, enclaves, and a population of diverse ages and readiness. While our unique environment contributes to Cambria’s distinct allure, when it comes to fire preparedness, the valued forested terrain, lush hillsides, and limited infrastructure pose individual challenges. Because of this, the Cambria Fire Department is charged with constant evaluation of potential hazard prevention and suppression, as well as emergency response and rescue.
Community building plays a crucial role in improving emergency outcomes. With plans and partnerships in place, in the event of an emergency, neighbors can more capably coordinate evacuation assistance for people and pets; transport; sharing temporary shelter, water, or power; facilitating safety shutoffs; and assisting with emergency communications.
Neighborhood Adaptability: Preparing and organizing with neighbors is not a one-size-fits-all process. As community members, everyone can make neighborhood-centered preparations that fit a specific area’s individualized features and demographics. While building partnerships among neighbors can help with preparation, evacuation, and property protection during wildfires, these complementary relationships will also help pool critical resources like generators, chainsaws, pumps, and other emergency supplies.
These upcoming neighborhood meetings provide an excellent opportunity to come together for functional planning with experts and community members, encouraging Cambrians to be connected when it matters the most.
Shared Resources at Cambria Fire in-person meetings to include:
- Checklists: home, individual, neighborhood, pets, utilities
- Community-specific maps
- Sign-ups for apps and early warning systems
- Supportive materials from ReadySLO.org
Meeting Details by Service Area to be posted soon:
Rural Residential; Leimert Estates and Happy Hill; Park Hill; Pine Knolls; East Village; Sea Clift Estates; East-West Ranch; Lodge Hill – East; Lodge Hill – West; Marine Terrace; and Top of the World
