Firewise Success Story: Doug Williams and the Wildwood Watchers
In April 2021, Doug Williams and his neighbors in Yucaipa, California, launched a transformative journey by joining the national Firewise USA® program. Their goal was simple yet powerful: to reduce wildfire risks and enhance safety for the 50 homes in the Wildwood corridor. Through the formation of the Wildwood Watchers Fire Safe Council, Williams spearheaded a movement that is setting an inspiring example for community-driven fire safety.
At the heart of their initiative was a risk assessment conducted in collaboration with CAL FIRE and Yucaipa Fire Chief Grant Malinowski. Together, they identified critical vulnerabilities, such as the lack of a fuel break between the state park and nearby homes, shrubbery close to windows that could ignite homes, and ladder fuels increasing wildfire risks. Based on these findings, the Wildwood Watchers developed a comprehensive three-year plan focusing on defensible space, homeowner education, and community-wide mitigation projects.
During the July 2022 Yucaipa City Council meeting, Williams presented the Firewise program, sharing a video to explain its benefits. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between residents and fire departments to improve evacuation routes, enable safer firefighting access, and reduce fire hazards. Williams praised the open communication with local fire officials, contrasting it with frustrations experienced during previous fire seasons when communication with state-level agencies was lacking.
Key Accomplishments of the Wildwood Watchers:
Defensible Space Improvements: Homeowners cleared brush, trimmed low-hanging tree branches, and removed ladder fuels to protect properties.
Education and Engagement: The council hosted community events, shared resources, and fostered collaboration among neighbors.
Advocacy for a Fuel Break: The group continues to work with local officials to establish a critical fuel break between the state park and the residential area.
State and National Recognition: Their efforts earned them recognition as a Firewise USA® community, enhancing their eligibility for grants and funding for future projects.
Williams underscored the importance of the program, saying, “The highlight will be if we can potentially have some sort of fuel break between the state park and the houses in that area. That’s really the goal, just to have something so we have a chance. Right now, it’s a ticking time bomb, so we are doing the best we can as homeowners in the community to address the issues.”
Through his leadership, Doug Williams has not only galvanized his community to take action but has also inspired other neighborhoods in Yucaipa to follow suit, such as the formation of the Friends of Live Oak Canyon Firewise Community. The Wildwood Watchers exemplify how collective action and strong partnerships can create fire-resilient communities, ensuring a safer future for all.