The 2013 wildland fire season is in full swing here in the Southwest and New Mexico. There are currently 4-large fires burning in our state. Three fires are taxing resources in the Northern part of the state and one in Southwest NM is presently threatening the small town of Kingston. The town has been evacuated as fire crews prepare to defend the homes and businesses today.
And then there is Colorado… look at this webpage that is documenting the spread of the Black Forest fire: http://wildfiretoday.com/2013/06/12/black-forest-fire-colorado-springs/. Look specifically at the list being published by the local Sheriff’s Department on the status of homes… frightening! There are over 300 homes reportedly lost as of this morning (Thursday). Thankfully no lives have been lost due to the readiness and willingness of residents to evacuate early. Some residents report not having the time to gather their belongings. Very sad.
The Sandia and Manzano Mountains, as well as the Rio Grande Bosque, are ripe for fire. The images coming from Colorado of homes burning could easily be replaced with images from Cedar Crest, Escabosa, or the South Valley. Our own County Fire Department is responding to and containing small fires all over the area daily.
In the coming days (or even today) take the time to prepare your home for fire. Prepare yourself for the possibility of an evacuation should a fire break out nearby. Seek out information from FEMA, the National Forest Service, the American Red Cross, neighborhood associations, and organizations such as the East Mountain Interagency Fire Protection Association (EMIFPA) about the risks where you live. Pay attention to closures and fire restrictions (http://firerestrictions.us/nm/). Be vigilant and report smoke early to the authorities. Lastly, please have your friends & family sign up for these messages at www.NIXLE.com.
