As Anniversary of Wildfires Nears, Local Civic Talks Fire Safety

Almost one year ago, wildfires raged locally-- and a community came together to help in a time of crisis.

Now, members of the Flanders, Riverside and Northampton Community Association are working to spread the word about fire safety -- especially in the Pine Barrens -- and protect both lives and property.

To that end, FRNCA's guest speakers, scheduled for the April  8 meeting, which takes place at 7 p.m. at the David W. Crohan Community Center in Flanders, include representatives of the Pine Barrens Commission and the National Fire Prevention Association.

The staff will discuss fire safety and simple tasks that residents can undertake  to reduce wildfire risks to both individuals and property in the area.

"The FRNCA board and membership are concerned about the potential risks associated with wildfires, especially due to our proximity to so much preservation property," Vince Taldone, FRNCA vice president said. "Also, there are many new homes located at the edge of the Pine Barrens preserve in what is known as the compatible growth zone. Most of those newer houses were built in the last decade, so few of the owners and occupants have ever seen a major wildfire and the battle it takes for firefighters to control them."

He added, "We thought it would be a great idea to refresh the memory of those who remember the fires last year and in years' past, plus educate more recent residents about how to best protect their properties."

Brochures will be distributed at the event regarding how to be "firewise" at home, and also how to become recognized members of the Firewise Communities/USA program, aimed toward helping to reduce property loss and increase safety in the event of a wildfire.

"The membership will decide whether we want to take the next step and become a recognized Firewise Community," Taldone said, adding that the presentation will inform hamlet residents on what it means to be "firewise in the context of the Pine Barrens preserve."