City and fire department leaders are saying San Diego is better prepared than ever to fight large fires. Leaders reflected on changes to the fire department on the two year anniversary of the Witch Creek fire.
San Diego has so far avoided any firestorms this year. But the city’s fire department says it’s prepared should one strike. Chief Javier Mainar says the department now has 32 reserve engines. It also has kits that will allow firefighters to quickly put out spot fires as well as more air resources. But Mainar says people should still make sure they’ve done all they can to lower the fire risk around their homes.
“Even with all that we’ve accomplished in terms of equipment and policy improvements. I must still remind everyone that there will never be enough firefighters to protect every home or equipment available to guard each home during a wind driven firestorm,” he says.
Mainar says the department’s priorities are life, then property, then environment. He says the department is also trying to find creative ways to keep embers from starting fires.
