Overbuilding Amplifies Wildfire Dangers

In “Night of Fire” (Dec. 28), on the San Diego Cedar fire, some of the most salient questions were not asked. Beyond a focus on preparedness, it is essential to understand how so many people were placed at great risk so that we can avoid future tragedies.

The bottom line is that inappropriate subdivision of high-risk rural land into ranchettes and low-density suburban enclaves has created “disasters waiting to happen” on a massive scale. Unless local governments can change course to limit such practices and refocus growth in a safe manner, the state needs to step in with some new ground rules. Besides the human tragedy, the huge bill for fighting these fires ends up on the doorstep of the taxpayer.

Dan Silver

Los Angeles