Are we ready for more wildfires?


On Nov. 8, 2018, cities located in Ventura and Los Angeles counties were hit by the Woolsey fire.

Ninety-six thousand, nine hundred forty-nine acres of land were burnt, three people were killed, and over 295,000 people were evacuated (my hometown included).

It is safe to say that neither counties were prepared for this emergency. The affected cities have slowly been making changes for the community’s safety.

The Public Safety Commission of the City of Calabasas has been working with the sheriff and fire department to publish a list of 10 recommendations to help the city and its residents. But as a current resident of Calabasas, I still am afraid.

I have signed up to emergency text messages from both Ventura and LA counties. I picked up a map of the city of Calabasas in case my GPS is out. I have made two emergency bags, one for my car and one for my house. But I still do not feel ready. Where would I even go if anything happens?

I am writing today because I believe that actions need to be taken immediately. After seeing how the Woosley fire was handled, implementing new safety precautions for our community is critical. I am sure that other residents out there are asking themselves the same question; What changes should we make to be more prepared?

Alison Tcheguini
Calabasas