Preparedness Pays

Fire, flood, earthquake--all hallmarks of life on the edge in Southern California--periodically rise up to remind us of the powers of nature. On Tuesday, even as weather forecasters warned of El Nino storms this winter, the skies over Orange County rained down ash and commuters witnessed billowing smoke from a huge fire in the foothills.

More than 5,200 acres burned, but firefighters prevailed, with some cooperation from wind direction, a heavy measure of preparation and an assist from more than a dozen water-dumping aircraft. By day’s end, only a few structures had burned and no injuries had been reported. The results showed the benefit of being ready. It also was clear that lessons from past experience had been learned.

Since the 1993 Laguna Beach firestorm, local fire departments have devoted more time to training. Firefighters had even studied a 1967 wildfire that seemed to have behaved in ways similar to Tuesday’s; they were able to anticipate where the flames might go next.

Preparation by schools and residents was evident too. On 10 campuses in the Irvine, Orange and Tustin school districts, an informal networking system reached most families before the start of the school day, making it possible to cancel classes. In Baker Canyon, the site of the most serious danger, residents had cleared brush and stored water. They also had established advance communication with emergency personnel.

With no other fires burning, help came from across the state, including tankers and helicopters from the California Department of Forestry. Firefighters and emergency personnel fought a courageous battle in the face of high winds and heavy smoke.

Wildfire is a constant threat in the foothills. As development encroaches, vigilance and planning take on increasing urgency. Tuesday’s blaze showed that these things really can make a difference in saving lives and property. With all of Southern California bone-dry, other areas might look at their own preparation.