With the start of a new year, the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council is asking for new contributions to their fire prevention and protection programs.
Since 2001, the nonprofit group has provided “essential” programs and services, free of charge, throughout the county to help residents prepare for wildfires.
The council helps to educate homeowners on the importance of defensible space – or, the clearing of all plant growth – surrounding their homes and structures within a certain distance. As part of their campaign, the council provides a free wood chipping service to residents to help remove unwanted growth.
In addition to promoting and educating citizens about defensible space, the council is trying to plant the seed of fire safety awareness in younger generations. One of their strategies includes scheduling visits from the iconic Smokey the Bear at events and schools to educate school-age children on prevention methods.
According to the FireSafe Council, prevention and preparation are the biggest factors that will keep a community safe when wildfire strikes.
Tax-deductible donations from residents will not go up in smoke, as donations help offset the rising costs of the council’s free chipping service. As a nonprofit organization, the Santa Clara FireSafe Council is funded by federal grants and private donations. For questions or to donate, contact the council via email at in**@sc*********.org or call (408) 975-9591.
Information on the Santa Clara FireSafe Council and the resources they provide can be found at www.SCCFireSafe.org.
