News Release
Ventura, Calif. — The Ventura Fire Department and the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council proudly announce Ondulando as the City of Ventura’s first nationally recognized Firewise USA community.
Firewise USA is a National Fire Protection Association, or NFPA, recognition program that provides a collaborative framework to help neighbors get organized, find direction, and take action to decrease the ignition potential of their homes and property and reduce wildfire risks locally.
“The efforts of the residents of Ondulando are extremely commendable and deserving of this recognition,” said Ventura Fire Chief David Endaya. “By taking proactive steps to reduce their risk from wildfire, these 640 property owners are the largest community in Ventura County to make a commitment to creating a safer community for every resident.”
To become Firewise-recognized, the residents of Ondulando had to implement several fire prevention and safety measures. They completed a community wildfire risk assessment to identify improvement areas, built a three-year action plan that outlines priorities to reduce ignition risk to homes, hosted a community meeting, committed to maintaining defensible space around homes and structures, and will invest 640 volunteer hours per year in wildfire risk reduction actions.
“Wildfires can impact dozens or hundreds of homes simultaneously, and if my neighbors’ homes aren’t prepared, mine will be vulnerable, too,” said Ben Rode, Ondulando resident of 21 years. “By embracing the Firewise USA program, we can fortify our homes and collectively enhance our community’s resiliency.”
The Ventura Fire Department and the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council are both committed to helping local communities become more fire-safe and will continue to provide resources and support for local neighborhoods looking to become a Firewise community.
To schedule a no cost home wildfire risk assessment, visit VenturaFireSafe.org. To learn more about the Firewise USA program, please visit NFPA.org/Firewise.
