In a new video interview, Supervisor Dawn Rowe and San Bernardino County Fire Chief Dan Munsey address fire safety, preparedness, and ongoing challenges in the wake of devastating fires in neighboring counties. Supervisor Rowe extended condolences to Los Angeles County residents and first responders impacted by recent fires, while Chief Munsey emphasized the importance of proactive community engagement, fuel mitigation efforts, and strong partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies.
Chief Munsey detailed San Bernardino County’s preparedness strategies, such as working with Fire Safe Councils and implementing fuel breaks, which successfully contained recent fires like the Line Fire and the Bridge Fire. He stressed the need for residents to take personal responsibility for fire safety by hardening their homes and creating defensible space. The discussion also included the challenges of maintaining fire hydrant systems in rural areas and the innovative use of technology, such as autonomous water-dropping helicopters, to enhance emergency response.
Supervisor Rowe urged residents to prepare for evacuations during fire emergencies, emphasizing the importance of heeding evacuation orders to protect lives and ensure the safety of first responders. To learn more about fire safety, visit Prepare.SBCounty.gov, and to see the full interview, click here.
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to support fire victims in Los Angeles County, Emergency Network Los Angeles (ENLA) is a fantastic resource. ENLA works with communities, individuals, and partner organizations to provide critical aid during and after disasters. To help, you can volunteer through their partner, LA Works, by visiting laworks.com/2025fires. If donating is more your speed, financial contributions to recognized organizations like the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, or California Community Foundation are the most effective way to make a difference. These organizations know exactly what’s needed and often purchase items locally to support economic recovery. Remember, unsolicited donations can create challenges for responders, so stick to financial contributions or coordinated volunteer efforts to maximize your impact. For more details, visit ENLA at enla.org.