Wickenburg Rotary Club recently welcomed Wickenburg Fire Department leaders Tony Christofferson and Ed Temerowski as weekly speakers, offering an important update on wildfire safety following the recent Jones Fire.
Christofferson, Battalion Chief and emergency manager for the Town of Wickenburg, shared practical guidance on how residents can better protect their homes, families, and property during fire season. Temerowski serves as Fire Chief.
One of the most important topics discussed was the wildland-urban interface—areas where homes are built close to natural desert or wildland terrain. Christofferson explained that these areas present unique safety challenges, especially as more people build in or near natural habitats.
Key wildfire safety takeaways
- Prepare your property early. Remove dead vegetation, dry brush, and other flammable materials from around your home.
- Create defensible space. Fire-resistant landscaping can help slow the spread of wildfire and improve your home’s chances of protection.
- Evacuate early if possible. Leaving early can reduce stress and improve safety for everyone involved.
- Have a GO bag ready. Pack essential items in advance so you can leave quickly if needed.
What to include in a GO bag
Christofferson encouraged homeowners to keep a GO bag and a grab list prepared at all times during fire season. Important items include:
- Important documents
- Water
- Nonperishable food
- Cash
- Credit cards
- Other essential personal items
Stay informed during fire season
Christofferson also recommended the free Watch Duty phone app as a reliable source for up-to-date wildfire information. He noted that residents should also understand Wickenburg’s emergency alert process, including the Ready, Set, Go evacuation system.
He stressed the importance of staying connected through social media and emergency communication channels so residents can act quickly if conditions change.
Community preparedness matters
The Wickenburg Fire Department continues working to stay ahead of fire season by adding staff, organizing public awareness events, and helping residents know where to turn for support and information.
The message was clear: prepare now, stay alert, and take wildfire season seriously. Your safety may depend on it.
Thank you to Rotary member Tom Atkinson for providing meeting notes on this important and timely topic.