Congresswoman Torres Commemorates Wildfire Preparedness Week
Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35) re-introduced a resolution to recognize May 5th to May 11th as Wildfire Preparedness Week, to inform the public on fire safety and preparedness. Every year, the wildfire season in California increases in length and frequency of fires, and 85% of all wildland fires in the U.S. which could be avoided are caused by humans. Congresswoman Torres’ district also hosts evacuation centers for families and their pets.
“Wildfires devastate parts of the Inland Empire and the families who call it home, every year. Despite recent storms, California communities continue to experience record-breaking heat waves and dry conditions, worsening the frequency and severity of wildfires. Having lost my own home to a fire, I know the emotional, physical, and logistical challenges a fire can have on a family. Establishing a Wildfire Preparedness Week will promote educational resources to raise awareness ahead of wildfire season and highlight the work of the firefighters who risk everything to keep us safe. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for more funding to respond to and prepare for wildfires. We should also encourage communities to work together to clear brush near and around their property, said Congresswoman Torres.”
Background: Congresswoman Torres introduced the same resolution in May of 2023 and May of 2022, and a similar resolution in August 2021. Areas affected by wildfires face an increased risk of flash flooding and mudslides. To protect Americans from wildfires and other extreme weather, Congresswoman Torres:
- Re-introduced the Wildfire Grid Resiliency Act to allocate funding to the Department of Energy to develop technologies to mitigate wildfire-related electrical damage.
- Introduced the Mudslide Recovery Act to establish a pilot program to address mudslide-related property damage.
The resolution is endorsed by the Humane Society Legislative Fund. It is cosponsored by Representatives Julia Brownley (CA-26), Mark Takano (CA-39), Barbara Lee (CA-12), Mike Thompson (CA-04), Luis Correa (CA-46), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Jared Huffman (CA-02), and Sara Jacobs (CA-51)
To read the Wildfire Preparedness Week Resolution, click here.
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