Wildfire Preparation and Response 2026

Brothers and Sisters,

We are all now very aware of the wildfire devastation within our Stake, both from immediate exposure and from smoke. We are just now entering the potentially most high-risk time of the year for wildfires. One lighting storm, and we could have multiple fires popping up around the Stake. It is late in the season to do any major ‘Fire Smart” work in your yards, BUT there are a few simple things you could still do to help protect your homes from wildfire.

1. Remove obvious flammable material from around the perimeter of you your homes such as dry vegetation, cocoa rugs, brooms, wood piles, coniferous plants such as cedar, pine, juniper shrubs.

2. Set up a sprinkler or two on top of your home with hose connected to outside tap that can easily be turned on in a moments notice. The sprinkler(s) should be able to reach beyond the perimeter of your home.

3. Trim the lower branches off of standing coniferous species trees to within 10m+ of your home.

4. Clean off dry needles and leaves from your roof and eaves troughs.

5.  Have a 72 hr. grab bag for each family member that you can grab to sustain you and your family should you have to leave quickly. This should include medications and important documents.

6. Pray and fast for rain.  

These simple inexpensive acts can go a long way towards saving your home.

Be safe and have an enjoyable summer.

Brother Terry Smith

Stake Communications Director