(March 3, 2010 – 5:20 p.m.) The threat of catastrophic wildland fire is ever present in Maricopa County. Working with municipalities, fire departments and other agencies, the Maricopa County department of emergency management has formulated a Community Wildfire Protection Plan and is seeking public comment on the final draft.

“We want residents to understand the risks involved with wildland fires and the mitigation planning designed to minimize those risks,” said Pete Weaver, Maricopa County emergency management director. “Public input is critical to making sure the plan fits each of our communities, as well as the county at large.”

The plan offers information on potential at-risk communities and areas, along with ways to help better protect property before fires occur.

“We have worked with a team of natural resource and wildfire specialist from multiple agencies including local fire chiefs, the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to make this plan a document that can be used by everyone from the small homeowner to a large business,” Weaver said.

The public is encouraged to download and review the plan at the Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management.

Questions or comments are due by March 31 and should be directed to CristinaHerrera@mail.maricopa.gov or at (602) 273-1411.

(Source: Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management)