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HomeMy WebLinkAbout8667RESOLUTION NO. 8667 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDLANDS ADOPTING THE COMMUNITY WILDFIRE PROTECTION PLAN COMPLETED FOR THE CITY OF REDLANDS WHEREAS, a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) is a plan developed to help residents and region better prepare for and respond to wildfires; and, WHEREAS, the final CWPP document was completed in February 2025 and included recommended actions; and WHEREAS, a completed CWPP document will give the city a higher priority or grant award opportunities; and WHEREAS, the CWPP is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15060(b) and (c), because adopting the CWPP will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, and because it is not a project as defined in CEQA Guidelines section 15378, as it has no potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly; and WHEREAS, the CWPP is exempt from CEQA pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines Sections 15262, which exempts feasibility and planning studies for possible future actions that have not been approved, adopted, or funded from the requirement to prepare an environmental impact report or negative declaration provided environmental factors are considered. The CWPP provides recommendations for potential future actions and information to plan, assess, and prioritize wildfire prevention activities, including public education and fuel reduction projects, and enables such activities to be eligible for State and federal funding; and WHEREAS, the CWPP is exempt from CEQA as it does not commit the City or any other entity to any particular course of action. Future activities are contingent upon motivated project proponents, available funding, and review and approval by the authorizing jurisdiction. Any activities that are recommended or included in the CWPP Project List may be modified or denied in their entirety. If any wildfire prevention and preparation activities are later undertaken, the public agencies authorizing such activities will be required to comply with CEQA, as applicable. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF REDLANDS AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. That the City Council of the City of Redlands determines that each of the Findings set forth above is true and correct, and by this reference incorporates those Findings as an integral part of this Resolution. 1AResotufions\Res 8600-8699\8667 Wildfire_Protection_Plan.docjm Section 2. That the City Council of the City of Redlands hereby adopts the Community Wildfire Protection Plan prepared by City Staff and developed for the City of Redlands dated March 4, 2025 attached hereto as Exhibit "A". Section 3. This Resolution shall become effective immediately following passage and adoption thereof. ADOPTED, SIGNED AND APPROVED this 4th day of March, 2025. 4��- , ,;,- Mario Saucedo, Mayor ATTEST: 160he Donaldson, City Clerk 2 I: 1ResolutionslRes 8600-8699\8667 WildSre_Protection_Plan.doc jm I, Jeanne Donaldson, City Clerk of the City of Redlands, hereby certify that the foregoing resolution was duly adopted by the City Council at a regular meeting thereof held on the 4th day of March, 2025, by the following vote: AYES: Councilmembers Barich, Tejeda, Davis; Mayor Saucedo NOES: ABSENT: Councilmember Shaw ABSTAIN: J a e Donaldson, City Clerk 3 IAResolutions\Res 8600-8699\8667 Wildfire Protection Plau.doc jm EXHIBIT A LAResolutions\Res 8600-8699\8667 Wildfire_Pmtectiou_Plan.doc-jm C=IMNa . EK-R Nl� r rn • i+ku '.AAt I— Docusign Envelope ID: DD99B6ED-4CE7-47E5-86BF-13772BD3A19D Signature Page The following signatories mutually agree on and approve the final contents of this CWPP: uA,- z& Mario Salcedo Mayor City of Redlands Rich Sessler Fire Chief City of Redlands FDocuSigned 6y: ww UmfFif-W Shane Vt a le1d Unit Chief CAL FIRE, San Bernardino Unit Date Date 2/27/2025 Date [City of Redlands CWPP, 2025] Page i Acknowledgments We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Community Wildfire Protection Plan Work Group and all stakeholders for sharing their time and expertise throughout the planning process. Your engagement has played a key role in fostering resilient landscapes, promoting public education, minimizing structural fire risks, and ensuring a safe and effective response to wildfires. Plan Contact Information Vincent Anderson, Fire Marshal City of Redlands Fire Department 909-798-7601 fireprevention(o)_cityofred lands.org [City of Redlands CWPP, 2025] Page ii Contents Signature Page .............. Acknowledgments.......... Plan Contact Information Contents ........................ Figures....................................................................................................................................... vi Tables........................................................................................................................................ A Acronyms.................................................................................................................................. vii ExecutiveSummary ................................................................................................................... 1 Introduction................................................................................................................................ 2 Goalsand Objectives................................................................................................................. 2 Roles and Responsibilities......................................................................................................... 3 Applicable Plans and Regulations.............................................................................................. 4 Planning Area / Community Information..................................................................................... 5 Fire Protection Areas.................................................................................................................. 7 Fire Department Service Areas.............................................................................................. 7 Firefighting Resources........................................................................................................... 7 ResponsibilityAreas............................................................................................................... 9 Local Responsibility Areas.................................................................................................. 9 State Responsibility Areas & CAL FIRE Units..................................................................... 9 Federal Responsibility Areas.............................................................................................. 9 Wildland-Urban Interface Identification......................................................................................12 Wildland-Urban Interface Background...................................................................................12 City of Redlands CWPP WUI Identification............................................................................13 Assessment of Wildfire Hazard and Wildfire Risk......................................................................14 WildfireHazard.....................................................................................................................14 Landscape, Fuels, & Topography Discussion....................................................................14 Redlands CWPP Fire History Overview.............................................................................15 WildfireRisk..........................................................................................................................17 Census Tract 73.07 Overview.........................................................................................17 Census Tract 73.07 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment..................................................18 Census Tract 85.01 Overview.........................................................................................18 Census Tract 85.01 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment..................................................18 CensusTract 85.02 Overview.........................................................................................19 Census Tract 85.02Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment..................................................19 [City of Redlands CWPP, 2026] Page ill Census Tract 83.01 Overview.........................................................................................19 Census Tract 83.01 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment..................................................20 Census Tract 83.02 Overview.........................................................................................20 Census Tract 83.02 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment..................................................20 Census Tract 84.03 Overview.........................................................................................21 Census Tract 84.03Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment..................................................21 Census Tract 86.02 Overview.........................................................................................21 Census Tract 86.02 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment..................................................22 ActionPlan................................................................................................................................24 Landscape Management / Prioritized Hazardous Fuel Reduction Treatments .......................27 Ignitability Measures for Structures & Critical Infrastructure......................................................30 New Development Requirements..........................................................................................30 California Fire Safe Regulations........................................................................................30 California WUI Building Code Requirements.....................................................................30 Defensible Space & Fire -Resistant Vegetation Practices...................................................30 Existing Development & Structures.......................................................................................31 Mitigation Features for Existing Structures........................................................................31 Critical Infrastructure Ignitability Reduction............................................................................33 Redlands Conservancy.....................................................................................................33 Wildfire Response and Suppression Capabilities......................................................................34 Planning and Decision Support.............................................................................................34 Fire Response Resources.....................................................................................................34 City of Redlands Fire Department.....................................................................................35 California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE)....................................36 Wildland Fire Protection Agreement for Redlands.............................................................36 Bureau of Land Management (BLM).................................................................................38 Evacuation Resources..........................................................................................................38 EmergencyAlert System...................................................................................................38 RoadSystems...................................................................................................................39 Specific Needs Residents & Assisted Living Facilities.......................................................39 Community Emergency Response Team...........................................................................40 Monitoring& Updates................................................................................................................41 Conclusion................................................................................................................................41 Appendices & References.........................................................................................................42 Appendix A: Public Outreach and Engagement.........................................................................42 Public Outreach and Engagement Overview.........................................................................42 [City of Redlands CWPP, 2025] Page iv City of Redlands Disaster Council Presentation................................................................42 CWPP Draft Distribution to Key Community Stakeholder Groups......................................42 CWPP Draft Posted for Public Input Period.......................................................................42 City of Redlands City Council Adoption Resolution............................................................43 References...............................................................................................................................43 [City of Redlands CWPP, 2025] Page v Figures Figure 1. Map of the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area Boundary ...................................... 6 Figure 2. Map of the Fire Department service areas within the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area........................................................................................................................................... 8 Figure 3. Map of the Wildland Fire Responsibility Areas within the City of Redlands CWPP .....10 Figure 4. Map of the CAL FIRE units related to the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area ...... 11 Figure 5. Map of the identified Wildland Urban Interface within the City of Redlands CWPP PlanningArea...........................................................................................................................13 Figure 6. City of Redlands CWPP Wildfire Hazard Assessment Map........................................16 Figure 7. City of Redlands CWPP Wildfire Risk Map.................................................................23 Figure 8. Map of the City of Redlands CWPP Fuel Treatment Project Priorities and Locations .29 Figure 9. Defensible Space Distance Infographic......................................................................33 Figure 10. CAL FIRE — City of Redlands Wildland Fire Protection Agreement Map...................37 Tables Table 1. Members and Organizations of the City of Redlands CWPP Working Group ................ 3 Table 2. Summary of City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area and Community Information......... 5 Table 3. Fire Departments within the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area ............................. 7 Table 4. City of Redlands CWPP Action Plan............................................................................24 Table 5. City of Redlands CWPP Fuel Treatment Project Priorities, Locations, Size and Methods of Treatment: Right of Way & Private Parcels............................................................................27 Table 6. City of Redlands CWPP Fuel Treatment Project Priorities, Locations, Size and Methods of Treatment: Critical Infrastructure & HVRA.............................................................................28 [City of Redlands CWPP, 2025] Page vi Acronyms BIA Bureau of Indian Affairs BLM Bureau of Land Management CAL FIRE California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection CWPM Community Wildfire Preparedness and Mitigation (CAL FIRE — OSFM) CWPP Community Wildfire Protection Plan FAC Fire Adapted Community FHSZ Fire Hazard Severity Zone FRA Federal Responsibility Area FRAP Fire and Resource Assessment Program FSR Fire Safe Regulations GIS Geographic Information System HFR4 Healthy Forests Restoration Act HVRA Highly Valued Resource and Asset LRA Local Responsibility Area OSFM Office of the State Fire Marshal SIZ Structure Ignition Zone SRA State Responsibility Area USFS United States Forest Service VHFHSZ Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone WUI Wildland-Urban Interface [City of Redlands CWPP, 2025] Page vii Executive Summary The Redlands Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) Planning Area, which includes the City of Redlands jurisdiction with neighborhoods of Smiley Heights, Live Oak Canyon, San Timoteo Canyon, as well as the eastern boundary of the City adjacent to the Mentone and Yucaipa. The focus areas of the CWPP are the periphery portions of the City where the majority of Wildland Urban Interface exists and area located in High or Very High Fire Hazard Areas as identified by CAL FIRE and Office of the State Fire Marshal. The topography, vegetation, as well as wind currents of these areas call for a variety of mitigation and preparedness efforts to protect the intermixed structures and critical infrastructure for the hazards associated with wildfire. The current population of this area is approximately 73,000. The area consists of a primarily of single-family housing areas within the hillsides, as well as along Live Oak Canyon and San Timoteo Canyon area. There are a small number of commercial operations in the area including citrus orchards, ranching, and associated logistics operations. A freight railroad line also runs north -south in the San Timoteo Canyon. Additional critical infrastructure and public services in the CWPP planning area include schools, healthcare facilities, as well as utility services. Outreach to stakeholders input contributions for this CWPP on aspects of structure protection and evacuation included: Redlands Unified School District, Redlands Community Hospital, Southern California Edison, and Southern California Gas Company. A considerable amount of vacant, undeveloped parcels in this area are also owned or managed by special Departments or entities including the San Bernardino Flood Control Department, Inland Empire Resource Conservation Department, as well as the Redlands Conservancy. Redlands City boundary runs parallel with the San Bernardino County and Riverside County Line [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 1 Introduction Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs) are collaboratively developed plans focused on reducing wildfire risk to identified community values within a defined planning area. They serve as an important vehicle for assessing local wildfire hazard and risk, coordinating wildfire risk reduction activities, and providing a mechanism for project implementation. Goals and Objectives The goals of the City of Redlands CWPP, which was collaboratively developed, are • Enhance interagency response capability for effective responses to fire incidents within the CWPP Plan area • Improve wildfire early detection capacities • Recommend measures to reduce the ignitability of structures throughout the area addressed by the plan • Identify sustainable strategies for routine vegetation management in public right-of-way adjacent to roadways identified as evacuation and emergency access routes. • Identify opportunities to increase community member enrollment in the emergency alert system. • Provide a platform for wildfire mitigation that can support the creation of resilient community designations, such as Firewise USA, within the City of Redlands. Roles and Responsibilities The following CWPP Working Group hold primary responsibility for the plan development and implementation. Table 1. Members and Organizations of the City of Redlands CWPP Working Group CWPP Working Group Name .6rganization/Agency Title CWPP Role Shane Littlefield CAL FIRE 1 San Bernardino Unit Unit Chief Provide general guidance (or Designee) as needed Review and approve Final CWPP Rich Sessler City of Redlands Fire Department Fire Chief Provide executive (or Designee) leadership guidance to ensure CWPP aligns with strategic objectives Vince Anderson City of Redlands Fire Department Fire Marshal Coordinate contents and (or Designee) formatting of CWPP Claudia Caceres City of Redlands GIS Division GIS Supervisor Coordinate Maps and GIS (or Designee) analysis related to CWPP. John Harris City of Redlands Municipal Utilities and Director Provide input on MUED Engineering Department (MUED) (or Designee) involvement with fire protection water supply and permanent roadway infrastructure aspects of CWPP. Rachel Tolber City of Redlands Police Department Chief of Police Provide input on RPD (or Designee) involvement with evacuation aspects of CWPP. 1abitha Crocker City of Redlands Facilities and Director Provide input on FCS Community Services Department (or Designee) involvement public parcel (FCS) and public right of way vegetation management aspects of CWPP. Brian Desatnik City of Redlands Development Director Provide input on DSD Services Department (DSD) (or Designee) involvement with Planning, Zoning, and Building Code aspects of CWPP. Sherli Leanord Redlands Conservancy Director Provide input on (or Designee) Conservancy involvement with public parcel and trail vegetation management aspects of CWPP. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 3 Applicable Plans and Regulations The City of Redlands operates a wide range of plans and regulations that promote community wildfire preparedness. The following table summarizes the most applicable documents. CWPP Plans and Regulations Document Summary Additi., City of Redlands The City's General Plan is a policy 2019 Edition of the General Plan is General Plan document, or "blueprint" for future current as of this CWPP. development, adopted by the City Following Sections identify additional Council to guide future growth in information on public safety and land Redlands. use: Sections 4, 6, & 7. City of Redlands LHMPs promote a comprehensive 2021 Edition of the LHMP is current Local Hazard planning process, requiring an as of this CWPP Mitigation Plan assessment of local capabilities Section 5.4.1.5 identifies additional against impacts from hazards in wildfire preparedness resources order to identify potential projects and/or strategies. City of Redlands WUI The WUI Response Plan provides 2024 Edition of all Documents are Response Plan a baseline approach for current as of this CWPP coordinating initial fire suppression efforts in the region's WUI area. City of Redlands City of Redlands adopts and 2022 Edition of all Documents are Building, Residential, amends statewide California current as of this CWPP and Fire Codes Building, Fire, Residential and related codes to promote structure safety. City of Redlands City of Redlands Health and Redlands Municipal Code Chapter Health and Safety Safety Ordinances establish a 8.08 reflects the property Ordinances varies of vegetation management maintenance program for the City. and property maintenance requirements to promote proactive Redlands Municipal Code Chapter mitigation of flammable fuels. 8.40 reflects the weed abatement program for the City. CAL FIRE San The Unit Strategic Fire Plan vision 2023/2024 Strategic Fire Plan For Bernardino Unit - for a natural environment that is The San Bernardino Unit Strategic Fire Plan more fire resilient; buildings and infrastructure that are more fire resistant; and a society that is more aware of and responsive to the benefits and threats of wildfire; all achieved through local, state, federal, tribal, and private partnerships. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 4 Planning Area I Community Information The following table (Table 2) provides a summary of the City of Redlands CWPP planning area and key community information based on the most current U.S. Census information published in from 2020 to 2023, as well as the City's current General Plan. A map of the planning area boundary is provided in Figure 1. Table 2. Summary of City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area and Community Information Planning Area Boundaries Population Land Ownership Fire Environment Land Use and Development Patterns Socioeconomic Characteristics The CWPP Planning Area covers an area of 36.4 square miles, with 36.1 square miles of land and 0.3 square miles, or 0.83%, consisting of water. The city's population is 73,849, with a median age of 38 years. The City's residential land use and housing stock reports a 57.4% owner occupancy rate, Approximately 30% of the City of Redlands is located in a high fire hazard severity zone. Details on the fire environment for the CWPP Planning Area is provide in the Assessment of Wildfire Hazard 7 Wildfire Risk section. According to the City of Redlands General Plan, the breakdown of Land Use in the Planning Area includes: Residential (30%); Vacant (23%); Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (14%); Agriculture (7%); Industrial (4%); Other (4%), Public/Institutional (3%); and Commercial (3%). Very limited additional development is planned for the CWPP Planning area WUI LRA. The per capita income is $45,716, while the median household income is $94,473, and the average household income is $133,135. Approximately 41.5% of households earn over $100,000. Around 40% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The focus of the CWPP is the periphery of the City where the majority of Wildland Urban Interface areas exist. Further population details are provided in the Risk Assessment. The focus area of the CWPP consists of private, public, and special district parcel ownership. CAL FIRE/Office of the State Fire Marshal Fire and Resource Assessment Program identifies Local Responsibility Areas for cities. At full build -out by year 2035, the General Plan suggests that there may be the following additional types of development: -4,703 new residential Structures -3.4 million sf of additional commercial development -4.4 million sf of commercial/industrial Further population details are provided in the Risk Assessment of this CWPP. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 5 MUM �� tl ©E�aooCb3 am fl4m 6�4u gun R s F�1d$FSS}' S1iT.L7I+� �1's Cam[ ftgr cm F'w @0MOM 0 2.5005.000 10,000 15,000 US Feel Figure ?. Map of the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area Boundary [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 6 Fire Protection Areas Fire Department Service Areas Fire protection agencies listed in Table 3 are responsible for providing fire protection within the City of Redlands CWPP planning area. The City of Redlands Fire Department is the primary fire protection agency for the CWPP Planning Area: Mutual Aid and Allied Fire Protection agencies are included for regional awareness. Table 3. Fire Departments within the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area Table 3: Fire Protection Agencies in CWPP Planning Area AgencyFire Protection Description of Geographic Primary Fire Protection agency of the 35 City of Redlands square miles within City of Redlands City of Redlands jurisdiction, as well as the unincorporated Fire Department 'Donut Hole' area located in the northwest portion. Primary Fire Protection agency of the 7.7 City of Loma Linda City of Loma Linda square miles within City of Loma Linda Fire Department jurisdiction. Mutual aid agency to the west of City of Redlands. Primary Fire Protection agency of the San Bernardino County 19,278 square miles within County County of San Bernardino unincorporated areas and contract cities. Fire Protection District Mutual aid agency to the north of City of Redlands. Primary Fire Protection agency of the CAL FIRE California Department of 33,497 square miles within the San San Bernardino County Unit Forestry and Fire Bernardino County SRA, Agreement, and Protection contract cities. Mutual aid agency to the east and south of City of Redlands. Primary Fire Protection agency of the CAL FIRE California Department of 7,303 square miles within the Riverside Riverside County Unit Forestry and Fire County SRA, Agreement, and contract Protection cities. Mutual aid agency to the west and south of City of Redlands. Firefighting Resources The communities contained within the City of Redlands CWPP area boundaries are primarily served by the City of Redlands Fire Department (RFD). Mutual aid occurs frequently with the allied fire protection agencies listed in Table 3. The Wildfire Response and Suppression Capabilities of this CWPP provides additional details, including information on the CAL FIRE Wildland Fire Protection Agreement for City of Redlands. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 7 ruaa �ro 8 Mai mpme �iuS]�' �. St�11onP��� ©6+•�ffjEm . SAN BERNARDIHO VW COUNTY c SANw d BERNARDINO COUNTY�m -� California 413 o 3,000 6,000 12.000 18,000 , US Feet RIVER56DE COUNTY � } Figure 2. Map of the Fire Department service areas within the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 8 Responsibility Areas The following wildland fire responsibility areas are within the City of Redlands CWPP planning area which determines the legal and financial responsibility for wildland fire prevention and protection within each of these areas. Local Responsibility Areas The majority of the City of Redlands CWPP planning area is located in the Local Responsibility Area within City boundaries. State Responsibility Areas & CAL FIRE Units While there are no State Responsibility Areas located in the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area, the City of Redlands frequently collaborates with regional CAL FIRE Units during emergency response and pre -fire planning. The City of Redlands proximity to the County borders allows for partnership with both the CAL FIRE San Bernardino and Riverside Units: Figure 4 shows theses regional Unit service areas. The City of Redlands maintains a CAL FIRE Wildland Fire Protection Agreement for the Redlands CWPP Planning Area and includes 5,985 acres. The Wildfire Response and Suppression Capabilities section of this CWPP provides additional details on this Agreement. Federal Responsibility Areas There are approximately 5 undeveloped vacant parcels managed by the Federal Bureau of Land Management are located in the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area. These parcels are landlocked in the Santa Ana River wash, in proximity to the northern portion of Redlands. The City of Redlands collaborates with Bureau of Land Management during emergency responses and planning for this area. [City of Redlands CWPP, draft Version 11 Page 9 Figure 3. Map of the Wildland Fire Responsibility Areas within the City of Redlands CWPP • 00'1-� i s= '[ - Fire 5[a[ion 263 r _ R¢dlandr Pofice PiFpetch�'_ Fire Station 264Police Annex Station 241 - •� 51�Ai r_ ., a:.ti! n.r - Redlands [om mw�iey Heapital j Fire Station 262' 0 2.500 5,000 MOW 15,000 US Feel W* A [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1 ] Page 10 STATION 264 mu 0 3000 6000 12000 18000 Feet II SAN BERNARDINO UNIT 5TATIO�N 261I� .I 1 q-. mm�STATION 262 4 S • Glffomfa RIVERSIDE UNIT L -- Figure 4. Map of the CAL FIRE units related to the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 11 Wildland-Urban Interface Identification Wildland-Urban Interface Background A Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) refers to areas where human development and wildland fuels overlap or come into close proximity. It encompasses both interface and intermix areas, where interface zones are characterized by housing developments adjacent to or near continuous vegetation, while intermix zones involve scattered structures within a wildland area, where vegetation and fuels often exceed portions with human habitation. This environment enables fires to easily spread between structures and vegetation, raising the risk of wildland fires and potential loss of life and property. In recent decades, human encroachment into wildland ecosystems has expanded the WUI across the country, impacting wildfire management strategies. This growth of the built environment, coupled with factors such as aggressive fire suppression, land use trends, climate change, and pest infestations in vegetation, have motivated communities to refine wildfire mitigation approaches. Strategies such as creating defensible space around homes and implementing home hardening measures can help reduce fire risks in these areas; further detailed in the Ignitability Measures for Structures & Critical Infrastructure section of this CWPP. Local governments face ongoing challenges in providing safe, affordable housing for both current and future residents. The demand for housing in desirable areas such as southern California and limited vacant space often results in community development peripheral sections of metropolitan regions. Increasingly these vacant areas for possible development are located in the WUI. Currently, over 46 million homes across 70,000 communities are at risk of wildfires (U.S. Fire Administration, 2021). This trend is particularly concerning, as WUI areas are associated with a heightened risk of damage to life, property, natural resources, and the economy. The 2024 Strategic Fire Plan for California notes a significant rise in structures lost to fire since the early 2000s, compared to the 1990s (CAL FIRE, 2024). A Community Wildfire Protection Plan provides a framework for community stakeholders to collaborate on defining the local WUI, assessing the area's unique resources, fuels, topography, and climate, and prioritizing fire risk mitigation efforts. According to the Healthy Forests Restoration Act (HFRA), at least 50% of funds allocated for fire mitigation projects must be directed to WUI areas. The policies identified in Applicable Plans and Regulations Section of this CWPP provide guidance for managing WUI-related risks in the Planning Area. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 12 City of Redlands CWPP WUI Identification City of Redlands recognizes the CAL FIRE/Office of the State Fire Marshal Fire and Resource Assessment Program identified Local Responsibility Areas within city limits as the WUI area of the CWPP. This identification is required by municipalities per statewide California Government Code Section 51178. Additionally, Figure 1 identifies the wildland urban intermix in peripheral areas of the community's layout. The recognized areas are reflected in Figure 5 below. The structural density for the respective census tracts evaluated in the CWPP range from 0.3 to 1.9 structures per acre; additional details are provided in the Wildfire Risk Assessment of this CWPP for each tract. 11 7_` OFT,c Station 263 71 Nad""ds Pnlicr Flrt SteNan 264{ � Station 161 - Policc A0nnoa __ 0 .61 cep.. 1.i1y Ff sPit.l - nE�"c Firs Stoklon 262 - .. i.Cgi] 1N.(H!G SOUO US Fee! L& Figure 5. Map of the identified Wildland Urban Interface within the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 13 Assessment of Wildfire Hazard and Wildfire Risk Wildfire Hazard The City of Redlands CWPP working group used the following process to incorporate a wildfire hazard assessment and associated map into the CWPP planning process. Landscape, Fuels, & Topography Discussion The climate, topography, and vegetation in Redlands is conducive to annual wildfire events. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, Fire and Resource Assessment Program (CAL FIRE-FRAP) was established and mandated to map areas of significant fire hazards based on fuels (vegetation), terrain, weather, and other relevant factors. These zones, referred to as Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ), define the application of various mitigation strategies to reduce risk associated with wildland fires. CDF-FRAP developed data that displays the relative risk to areas of significant population density from wildfire. This data is created by intersecting residential housing unit density with proximate fire threat, to give a relative measure of potential loss of structures and threats to public safety from wildfire. Figure 5 shows the Fire Hazard Severity Zones located in City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area. Due to a combination of topography, weather, and fuel, and exacerbated by potentially high winds and limited access, the southern portion of the City of Redlands is highly susceptible to wildland fire hazards. The slopes of San Timoteo and Live Oak canyons, the Badlands to the south, and the Crafton Hills to the east are not only difficult for firefighters and their equipment to reach, but the hill's steepness and configuration can result in the rapid upslope spread of fire. Limited rainfall, low humidity, and seasonal high temperatures continue to contribute to the desiccation of the grasses and chaparral which cover the foothills, providing prime fuel for intense burns. Although some of the canyons are shielded from the direct impact of the powerful, dry Santa Ana winds, their occurrence generally aggravates the fire hazard. In addition, the presence of human activities in or near a wildland area dramatically increases the risk of a major fire due to careless smokers, illegal campfires, and other related risks. As noted above, the canyon areas located at the southwest of the City (and the surrounding areas) are the zones of highest risk. The area south and east of the city of Redlands is marked by mountains, foothills, and canyons are covered in susceptible vegetation. A large amount of the native vegetation in the Redlands area is commonly called chaparral, it is a dense and scrubby bush that has evolved to persist in a fire -prone habitat. Chaparral plants will eventually age and die; however, they will not be replaced by new growth until a fire rejuvenates the area. Chamise, manzanita and ceanothus are all examples of chaparral which are quite common in the Redlands area. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 14 Redlands CWPP Fire History Overview The sections below are a summary of the Fire History for the Redlands CWPP Planning Area. Additional information and details can be obtained in the City of Redlands Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Section 5.4.1.5. Reche/Redlands Fires In 2013, this wind -driven fire originated in Riverside County, in an area known as Reche Canyon. The fire burned northeast over a period of approximately 2 hours, entering San Bernardino County and threatening residents in the area of San Timoteo Canyon and Pilgrim Road. Redlands was notified by Riverside County that the fire was moving into our county and expected to burn into San Timoteo Canyon. Riverside County requested engines for structure protection along Pilgrim Road in San Timoteo Canyon. The fire was diverted away from these structures because of backfiring operations, air support and hand crews into San Timoteo, Overall, the fire damaged approximately 700 acres by containment. The cause was due to unknown 1 unidentified activity. Palmer Fire The Palmer Fire was a wildfire that ignited on July 6, 2017, in the San Bernardino National Forest in Southern California. The fire was sparked by a vehicle accident on Highway 38, near the town of Mentone, and quickly spread due to dry conditions, high temperatures, and gusty winds. The fire burned through steep and rugged terrain, primarily affecting the forested areas near the San Bernardino Mountains. Within a few days, it grew rapidly, consuming more than 8,000 acres of land and forcing the evacuation of several nearby communities. It also prompted the closure of roads and trails in the area to ensure the safety of both residents and firefighting crews. Bruder Fire The Bruder Fire began on October 15, 2019, in Redlands. The fire started in the late afternoon and quickly spread across the. dry, brush -filled terrain, fueled by strong winds and hot, dry conditions. It burned approximately 1,000 acres and threatened nearby homes, prompting evacuations for residents in the area. The fire's proximity to developed caused concerns about its rapid spread, but firefighters were able to contain the blaze within a few days. The Bruder Fire was ultimately fully contained by October 19, 2019, with no major injuries or fatalities reported, though it caused significant property and land damage. The fire was believed to have been caused by human activity, but the exact cause was not definitively determined. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 15 Figure G. City of Redlands CWPP Wildfire Hazard Assessment Map [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 16 Wildfire Risk The following steps were undertaken to assess the wildfire risk within the City of Redlands CWPP planning process. 1. Areas of the CWPP were identified by Census Tract boundaries for specific assessment. 2. Each Census Tract with a WUI LRA was evaluated by the CWPP Working Group utilizing the criteria and template developed by CAL FIRE. Limitations: It is important to note that the Census Tracts in the central and northern portions of Redlands CWPP Planning area are not identified as having any WUI LRA parcels by the CAL FIRE/Office of the State Fire Marshal FRAP. The following Census Tracts were not included in this initial version of the CWPP and may be included in future versions: Tracts 78.00, 80.01, 80.03, 80.04, 81.00, 82.01, 82.02, 84.02, 84.04, 84.05 & 84.06. 3. Evaluation of Wildfire Risk Factors were further assessed utilizing GIS databases including the U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Fire Administration Community Wildfire Awareness web -based Application, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Risk Index platform, as well as U.S. Department of Homeland Security Homeland Infrastructure Foundation -Level Data (HIFLD). 4. The CWPP input and evaluation of the Wildfire Risk Factors were compiled to assess an aggregate risk ranking for each Census Tract. Census Tract 73.07 Overview Census Tract 73.07 is located an the southeast portion of Redlands between Barton Road to the north, San Timoteo Canyon Road to the east, as well as the City/County boundary lines to the west and south. The tract has a total population of 4,591, with 2,015 housing units, 7.8% of which are vacant. Structure density in Census Tract 73.07 is 0.3 per acre. A significant portion, 22.6%, of the housing units are in multi -unit structures with three or more units, and 35.5% of the housing units are renter -occupied. Non -family households account for 25.2% of the total households, and a large proportion of the population (39.5%) is foreign -born. The area also has relatively low levels of educational attainment, with 5.6% of adults not graduating from high school. In terms of economic well-being, 9.9% of the population lives below 150% of the poverty level, and only 0.8% of households receive public assistance income. Unemployment among persons aged 16 or older stands at 12.0%, while 1.3% of the population moved from outside the county in the past year. A small percentage of households (5.0%) do not have broadband access, and 1.4% of households experience limited -English proficiency. There is also a relatively low proportion of young children in the area, with only 2.3% of the population under age 5. Highly valued resources and assets in this census tract include the San Timoteo Landfill Facility. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 17 Census Tract 73.07 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment The FEMA National Risk Index identifies Census Tract 73.07 as having a relatively high wildfire risk, with its location in a fire -prone area characterized by vegetation types and terrain that can contribute to fire spread. The tract has a low -density development but is vulnerable to wildfires due to factors such as proximity to natural vegetation, seasonal weather patterns, and its elevation, which may enhance the risk of ignition and rapid fire movement. Additional risk factors include single paved roadways for evacuation and emergency response access for areas such as Refuse and Pilgrim Roads. Census Tract 85.01 Overview Census Tract 85,01 is located on the southern portion of Redlands between Highland Avenue to the north, Interstate 10 to the east, Alessandro Drive to the west, and Sunset Drive to the south. The tract has a population of 3,626 and a total of 1,423 housing units, with 7.7% of these units being vacant. None of the housing units are part of multi -unit structures, and only 5.6% of the housing units are renter -occupied. Structure density in Census Tract 85.02 is 1.1 per acre. Non -family households make up 18.4% of the total households, while 13.9% of the population is foreign -born. The area also has relatively low levels of educational disadvantage, with only 1.8% of adults not having graduated from high school, and 3.2% of the population lives below 150% of the poverty level. In terms of economic indicators, 1.1 % of households receive public assistance income, and the unemployment rate for individuals aged 16 or older is 2.9%. There are no households with limited - English proficiency, and 4.3% of the population moved from outside the county in the past year. The percentage of young children under age 5 is 1.7%, and 6.2% of households lack broadband access. The tract shows a generally stable housing and economic environment with minimal overcrowding or other severe housing issues. Highly valued resources and assets in this census tract area includes Kimberly Elementary School, Redlands Fire Station 262, and a Western Heights Water Company reservoir. Census Tract 85.01 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment The FEMA National Risk Index identifies Census Tract 85.01 as a relatively high wildfire risk, primarily due to its proximity to undeveloped areas with natural vegetation, steep terrain, and seasonal weather conditions that can contribute to rapid fire spread. The combination of these environmental factors makes the tract particularly susceptible to wildfires, with elevated risks for both ignition and escalation. This tract is well served by interconnected paved roadways, as well as permanent municipal water system for fire suppression operations. Kimberly Elementary School and Redlands Fire Station 262 locations are a considerable distance from the WUI perimeter with the hillside and canyon areas. Additional risk factors include a need to establish routine vegetation management in public right-of-way adjacent to roadways and ongoing enforcement of vegetation management on parcels, and coordination of fuels management project along California Department of Transportation parcels along Interstate 10. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 18 Census Tract 85.02 Overview Census Tract 85.02 is located on the southern portion of Redlands between Sunset Drive Avenue to the north, Interstate 10 to the east, Alessandro Drive to the west, and Live Oak Canyon Road to the south. The tract has a total population of 4,836 and 1,722 housing units: Structure density in Census Tract 85.02 is 0.3 per acre. The area has a relatively low vacancy rate of 3.7%, with only 1.0% of housing units being part of multi -unit structures containing three or more units. Renter -occupied housing makes up 2.5% of the housing units, and there is no indication of overcrowded housing. Non -family households account for 21.4% of the population, while the foreign -born population comprises 12.3%. A small portion of adults, 3.1%, do not hold a high school diploma, and only 5.5% of the population has income below 150% of the poverty level. Additionally, 0.6% of households receive public assistance income, and 6.9% of adults aged 16 or older are unemployed. Further demographic data reveals that 0.5% of households in the tract experience limited English proficiency, and 3.2% of the population moved from outside the county within the past year. Children under 5 represent 0.8% of the population, and 6.0% of households do not have broadband access. Highly valued resources and assets in this census tract area include Mariposa Elementary School, Herngt `Aki' Nature Preserve, Oakmont Park, a Western Heights Water Company reservoir, and a combined public utility site containing a City of Redlands Water Division reservoir and cellular communications towers, Census Tract 85.02 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment The FEMA National Risk Index identifies Census Tract 85.02 as having a very high wildfire risk, primarily due to its proximity to undeveloped areas with natural vegetation, steep terrain, and seasonal dry conditions that heighten the potential for rapid fire spread. The area is vulnerable to wildfires because of the combination of environmental factors such as multiple priorities for the open space of the tract including protected animals and plants and nature preserve conditions. This tract has low levels of development density and is served by interconnected paved roadways. Permanent municipal water system for fire suppression operations is limited to the northern portion of the tract; water service for the southern portion is nearly exclusively by onsite wells and similar water supplies. Additional risk factors include a need to establish routine vegetation management in public right-of-way adjacent to roadways and ongoing enforcement of fuel breaks on private nonresponsive vacant parcels adjacent to developed residential areas. The area contains many portions with challenging terrain making access difficult for both emergency vehicles and personnel on foot.. Census Tract 83.01 Overview Census Tract 83.01 is located in the western portion of Redlands between Barton Road to the north, Olive Avenue/San Mateo Street to the east, and San Timoteo Canyon Road/Fern Avenue to the south. Housing in the area is relatively stable, with no vacant units or crowded housing reported. Structure density in Census Tract 83.01 is 1.7 per acre. The proportion of renters is 8.7%, and there is a significant presence of non -family households, which comprise 8.3% of the population. However, 14.5% of adults in the area have not completed high school, and 14.8% of the population lives below 150% of the poverty level. Unemployment [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 19 stands at 6.2% among individuals aged 16 and older. Public assistance income is virtually nonexistent, with 0% of households receiving such aid. Additionally, the tract reflects some linguistic and mobility factors. Approximately 5.8% of households speak a language other than English, and 8.6% of the population has moved within the past year. The foreign -born population constitutes 11.8% of the residents. Technology access also poses a challenge, with 8.5% of households lacking broadband internet. Lastly, children under 5 make up a small percentage of the population at 1.5%, indicating a relatively low proportion of very young residents. These characteristics point to a community that is relatively stable but faces certain socioeconomic and technological challenges. Highly valued resources and assets in this census tract area includes Smiley Elementary and Cope Middle Schools: Both campuses are a considerable distance from the WUI perimeter with the hillside and canyon areas. Redlands Community Hospital is located in this area and maintains a robust emergency preparedness program including plans for shelter in place, evacuation, and similar response actions. Census Tract 83.01 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment The FEMA National Risk Index identifies Census Tract 83.01 as having a relatively moderate wildfire risk. This tract is well served by interconnected paved roadways, as well as permanent municipal water system for fire suppression operations. This tract would benefit from establishing routine vegetation management in public right-of-way adjacent to roadways. Census Tract 83.02 Overview Census Tract 83.02 is located on the southern portion of Redlands between Cypress Avenue to the north, Center Street to the east, San Timoteo Canyon to the west, and Alessandro Drive to the south. The tract has a population of 2,984 and contains 1,200 housing units, with 9.3% of these units being vacant. A very small percentage, 1.2%, of the housing units are part of multi- unit structures, and 13.1% of the housing units are renter -occupied. Non -family households make up 25.6% of the total households, while 12.4% of the population is foreign -born. Additionally, 6.3% of adults have not graduated from high school, and 6.1% of the population lives below 150% of the poverty level. Structure density in Census Tract 83.02 is 1.0 per acre. Economic conditions show that 2.2% of households receive public assistance income, and the unemployment rate for those aged 16 or older is 4.4%. The tract has a relatively small number of households with limited English proficiency (0%), and 1.7% of people moved to the area from outside the county in the past year. The percentage of children under age 5 is 4.6%, and 3.8% of households do not have broadband access. Additionally, 0.9% of housing units are crowded, reflecting a slightly higher density living situation. Highly valued resources and assets in this census tract include San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary, Hillside Memorial Park, and a City of Redlands Water Division reservoir. Census Tract 83.02 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment The FEMA National Risk Index identifies Census Tract 83.02 as having a relatively high wildfire risk, influenced by its proximity to San Timoteo Canyon, elevated terrain, and dry seasonal conditions that can contribute to rapid fire spread. The area's landscape, coupled with periodic hot, dry weather, creates an environment where wildfires can ignite and escalate quickly. This tract is well served by interconnected paved roadways, as well as permanent municipal water [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 20 system for fire suppression operations. Additional risk factors include a need to establish routine vegetation management in the public right-of-way adjacent to roadways, coordination with fuels management project with special districts respective of protected species, and ongoing enforcement of fuel breaks on private nonresponsive vacant parcels adjacent to developed residential areas. Census Tract 84.03 Overview Census Tract 84.03 is located on the western portion of Redlands between Citrus Avenue to the north, Wabash Avenue to the east, Redlands Boulevard to the west, and Interstate 10 to the south. The tract has a population of 6,295 and 2,536 housing units, with 5.1 % of these units being vacant. Structure density in Census Tract 84.03 is 1.9 per acre. A small portion of the housing units (1.9%) are in multi -unit structures, and 10.9% of the units are renter -occupied. Non -family households make up 32.5% of the total households, and 7.3% of the population is foreign -born. Educational attainment is relatively high, with only 2.4% of adults not having graduated from high school, and 5.1 % of the population lives below 150% of the poverty level. Economically, 1.0% of households receive public assistance income, and the unemployment rate for those aged 16 or older is 3.5%. The tract has 3.3% of households with limited -English proficiency, and 4.6% of the population moved from outside the county in the past year. The percentage of young children under age 5 is relatively high at 7.9%, and 6.9% of households lack broadband access. Overall, the area shows a diverse population with a mix of housing types and moderate economic challenges. Highly valued resources and assets in this census tract include Moore Middle School and Redlands High School: Both campuses are a considerable distance from the WUI perimeter with the hillside and canyon areas. Ford Park is also located in this area. Census Tract 84.03 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment The FEMA National Risk Index identifies Census Tract 83.02 as having a relatively high wildfire risk, driven by factors such as proximity to undeveloped areas with natural vegetation, elevated terrain, and seasonal dry conditions that can contribute to the rapid spread of fires. The area's landscape, combined with periodic high winds and dry weather, increases the likelihood of wildfires igniting and escalating quickly. This tract is well served by interconnected paved roadways, as well as permanent municipal water system for fire suppression operations. Additional risk factors include a need to establish routine vegetation management in the public right-of-way adjacent to roadways, ongoing enforcement of fuel breaks on private nonresponsive vacant parcels adjacent to developed residential areas, and coordination of fuels management project along California Department of Transportation parcels along Interstate 10. Census Tract 86.02 Overview Census Tract 86.02 is located on the northeast portion of Redlands and unincorporated Mentone area. The portion of related to the CWPP Planning Area is limited to the City of Redlands incorporated area and primarily includes the public right of way along State Highway 38 as along as a number of parcels along this roadway slated for potential future infrastructure projects. The block group is primarily unincorporated, with 99.6% of its housing located in San Bernardino [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 21 County, while only 0.4% is within the incorporated area of Redlands. A significant portion of the population living below 150% of the poverty level (44.1%), and a notable share of children under 5 years old (8%). The area has a relatively low vacancy rate (0%) and a sizable portion of housing (21.7%) in multi -unit structures. A significant portion of the population lives in renter -occupied units (44.6%) and there is a moderate rate of crowded housing units (2.3%). Structure density in Census Tract 86.02 is 0.9 per acre In terms of education and employment, the block group also faces challenges, with 14.8% of adults lacking a high school diploma and 6.3% of the population aged 16 or older unemployed. There are also non -family households (37.2%) and a small percentage of limited -English households (1.3%). The foreign -born population makes up 11% of the area, and 11.6% of the residents have moved in the past year. Public assistance is minimal, with only 0.8% of households receiving support. Highly valued resources and assets in this census tract include the City of Redlands Tate Water Treatment Facility. Census Tract 86.02 Aggregate Wildfire Risk Assessment The FEMA National Risk Index identifies Census Tract 86.02 as having a Very High wildfire risk, driven by factors such as proximity to undeveloped areas with natural vegetation, elevated terrain, and seasonal dry conditions that can contribute to the rapid spread of fires. The area's landscape, combined with periodic high winds and dry weather, increases the likelihood of wildfires igniting and escalating quickly. This tract is well served by interconnected paved roadways, as well as permanent municipal water system for fire suppression operations. The CWPP Planning Area for this tract is primarily limited to defensible space maintenance around Highly valued resources and assets, as well as periodic vegetation management on public right of way and undeveloped parcels. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 22 6 IIIr Li e SAN BERNARDINO Redlan_ r Yat _ COUNTY inda F6607i008ap3 Brrn hlar, "may ):330, "tiSAN ' BERNARDINO COVN•TY T05071np73p7 s�'-- Tp6071008502 - 0 3,00o6,000 12,000 18,M) RIVERSIDE COUNTY US Feet PIA e.� ,. .. 1, 1 r._. Figure 7. City of Redlands CWPP Wildfire Risk Map [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 23 Action Plan The following City of Redlands CWPP Action Plan summarizes and integrates the information and findings from the CWPP to provide specific implementing projects, programs, or other mechanisms to help achieve the CWPP goals and objectives. The Action Plan includes specific actions pertaining to: Expand regional emergency response capacities to reduce the potential for catastrophic wildfires Improve early detection and community notification capacities • Establish sustainable strategy to fuels management projects • Expand community outreach and education initiatives The City of Redlands CWPP action plan also includes the lead agencies responsible for each action, timeframe for implementation, type of resources needed, and metrics for tracking progress and outcomes. Table 4. City of Redlands CWPP Action Plan CWPP Action Plan Action i Lead(s) Priority Timeframe Resources Metric for Notes Required Success GOAL 1: Expand regional emergency response capacities to reduce the potential for catastrophic wildfires Objective 1. 1: Enhance interagency response capability for effective responses to fire incidents within in the CWPP Plan area 1. Develop an RFD High March 2025 -Coordination -WUI Response Completed interagency WUI Operations meeting the Plan Finalized ahead of Response Plan Division Cooperators -Distributed to timeframe -Field surveys collaborators objective: -Final report Sept. 2024 2. Upload RFD Medium June 2025 -Access and -WUI Response Interagency WUI Operations or Training on Cal Plan Uploaded Response plan to Emergency OES Next to Cal OES NG Cal OES Platform Management Generation SCOUT Division (EM) SCOUT Platform Platform 3. Maintain Wildfire RFD High Annual -Annual funding, -Maintain Fire Protection Administration Renewal with anticipated agreement for Agreement with Division increasing cost foreseeable CAL FIRE future GOAL 2: Improve early detection and community notification capacities Objective 2.1: 1. Establish an RFD High December -Contract & -Unit installed & Completed AlertCalifornia Community 2025 Equipment operational ahead of detection unit for Risk Division procurement with timeframe Live Oak Canyon (CRR) AlertCalifornia -RFD Personnel objective: Network. access to alerts Nov. 2024 -Site Coordination and camera with stakeholders. network. 2. Replace and RFD EM High July 2025 -Technical -Upgraded Completed upgrade City's Division account Emergency ahead of [City of Redlands CWPP. Draft Version 1 ] Page 24 Action Plan Action Lead(s) Priority Timeframe RequiredCWPP Resources Metric for Notes current emergency conversation Alert System timeframe alert system aspects operational objective: -Training and Nov. 2023 rollout of new system 3. Explore mass area RFD CRR & Medium Jan. 2026 -Identify 1 ualified notification EM Division vendor for systems such as Feasibility study outdoor speakers -Capital and and similar sustainable technology funding sources identified within RFP Process GOAL 3: Establish sustainable approaches to fuels management projects Objective 3. 1: Implement capability that is effective in responding to expected fire incidents 4. Create RFD CRR Medium April 2025 -Legal Review of -Establish Completed partnerships with Division & Agreements agreements ahead of CA Conservation Redlands -Logistics timeframe Corp and similar Facilites and coordination for -Complete 5 objective: public sector Community project fuels Oct. 2024 resources Services Dept, identification management (FCS) City staff onsite projects liaisons for annually projects 5. Create RFD CRR Medium March 2025 -Coordination with -Establish Partnerships with Division & private parcel agreements non-profit NGO Redlands FCS groups groups such as Dept. -Logistics -Complete 1 Team Rubicon coordination for fuels project management identification project annually -City staff onsite liaisons for projects 6. Increase resources RFD High July 2026 -Increase RFD -increase for fuels Administration CRR Division respective management and Division & contracts budget budget abatement projects Redlands FCS account accounts Dept. -Increase Redlands FCS -Identify Dept. Trees and sustainable abatements approach for accounts routine -Explore grant maintenance opportunities and fuels management of public right of way 7. Coordinate RFD CRR Medium May 2025 -Community -Complete 2 Completed Community Division & outreach via Chipper Day ahead of Chipper Events Redlands FCS social media, Events annually timeframe Dept. press release and objective: similar networks July 2024 [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 25 Action Lead(s) Priorit y Action Plan Timeframe Resources Metric for Notes RequiredCWPP -Logistics coordination for project identification -City staff onsite liaisons for projects GOAL 4: Expand community outreach and education initiatives Objective 4.1: 8. Distribute WUI RFD CRR Medium July 2025 -Create template -Distribute Completed Retrofit safety Division for retrofit safety retrofit safety ahead of feature letters with ]otter based on educational timeframe Building Permits CAL FIRE Low letter for all objective: Cost Retrofit List building permits Jan. 2025 of alterations & remodels in the LRA WUI. 9. Coordinate RFD CRR & Low April 2025 -Conduct outreach -Complete 1 Completed Outreach Event EM Division to nonprofit NGO Outreach Event ahead of collaborations with groups annually timeframe non-profit NGO -Logistics objective: organizations such coordination for June 2024 Red Cross outreach events -City staff onsite liaisons for events 10. Spring Season RFD CRR Medium March 2025 -Create engaging -Mail postcard Completed community wildfire Division template for to all parcels ahead of preparedness postcards owners in the timeframe postcards -Mail to all parcels WUI LRA objective: in the WUI LRA March 2025 11. Support creation of RFD CRR & Medium June 2025 -Training and -Host Firewise Firewise USA EM Division familiarity CAL USA materials Communities FIRE & NFPA on City website Firewise USA -Serve as application to liaison with approval workflow communities and CAL FIRE [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 26 Landscape Management I Prioritized Hazardous Fuel Reduction Treatments The following areas within the City of Redlands CWPP planning area have been identified and prioritized for hazardous fuel reduction treatments (Table 5; Table 6; Figure 8). Table 5. City of Redlands CWPP Fuel Treatment Project Priorities, Locations, Size and Methods of Treatment: Right of Way & Private Parcels Fuel Treatment Projects and Priorities — Right of Way & Private Parcels 1 S Sunset Drive Sunset Drive between 2 Miles .. Manual Thinning & Tree Public Right of Way Alessandro Road & Limbing Vinton Way 2 Alessandro Road Alessandro Road 0.5 Mile Manual Thinning & Tree Public Right of Way between Crescent Limbing Avenue & Carob Street 3 Garden Street Garden Street between 1 Mile Manual Thinning & Tree Public Right of Way Halsey Street and Limbing Rossmont Drive 4 Alessandro Rd/Sunset Dr Vacant parcels east of 30 Acres Manual & Mechanical Perimeter Fuel Break Alessandro Road & south Thinning of Sunset Drive 5 Mistretta Canyon Parcels Vacant parcels east of 15 Acres Manual & Mechanical Perimeter Fuel Break South Lane & south of Thinning Highview Drive 6 1-101Wabash — East of Wabash Avenue 9 Acres Manual & Mechanical Crystal Springs Parcel & south of 1-10 Thinning 7 Alessandro Road Alessandro Road 0.5 Mile Manual Thinning & Tree Public Right of Way between Sunset Drive Limbing and Deer Trail Drive 8 Wabash Avenue Wabash Ave. Between 1- 7 Acres Manual Thinning Right of Way 10 & Sunset Drive 9 Live Oak Canyon Road 30915 to 32032 Live Oak 2 Miles Manual Thinning Public Right of Way Canyon Rd 10 EdgemontlFairmont Right Edgemont & Fairmont 12 Acres Manual & Mechanical of Way & Fuel Break Drives between Thinning, Tree Limbing 11 Boyscout Road Boyscout Road 1 San 1 Mile Manual & Mechanical Right of Way Timoteo Canyon roadway Thinning 12 Pilgrim Road Pilgrim Road 1 San .05 Mile Manual & Mechanical Right of Way Timoteo Canyon roadway Thinning 13 Terracina Recovery LLC Vacant parcels north of 7 Acres Manual & Mechanical Parcels Perimeter Fuel Reservoir Road & south Thinning Break of Camelot Drive 14 Elder Road Elder Road between 0.75 Mile Manual Thinning & Tree Public Right of Way Canyon Road and Sunset Limbing Drive 15 Redlands Boulevard Redlands Boulevard 0.5 Miles Manual Thinning & Tree Public Right of Way between Highland Limbing Boulevard and Ford Street [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 27 Table 6. City of Redlands CWPP Fuel Treatment Project Priorities, Locations, Size and Methods of Treatment: Critical Infrastructure & HVRA Manual Thinning — 77.- dlands 13212 Helen Court 10 Acres nk Reservoir possible site for animal grazing 2 Tate Water Plant 3050 Mill Creek Rod 2 Acres Manual & Mechanical Thinning 3 Hinckley Water Plant 1604 Crafton Avenue 2 Acres Manual & Mechanical Thinning 4 Western Heights 31721 Highview Drive 1 Acre Manual Thinning Water Tank Reservoir 5 Western Heights 301 Kelisa Circle 3 Acres Manual Thinning Water Tank Reservoir [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 28 [Placeholder: Finalizing the Map to match Tables 5 & 6] Figure 8. Map of the City of Redlands CWPP Fuel Treatment Project Priorities and Locations [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 29 Ignitabillty Measures for Structures & Critical Infrastructure New Development Requirements California Fire Safe Regulations California Fire Safe Regulations are published by the California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. These safety parameters are codified in California Code of Regulations Title 14 outlines fire safety requirements and wildfire defense measures for areas designated as State Responsibility Areas (SRAs), focusing on minimizing fire hazards and protecting communities. It includes provisions for defensible space, vegetation management, and requirements for fire- resistant building materials to reduce the risk and impact of wildfires in these high -risk areas. While the Fire Safety Regulations of Title 14 are exclusive to SRAjurisdiction, the City of Redlands CWPP includes this reference as a best practice resource for reducing structural ignitability in the L RA. California WU1 Building Code Requirements The City of Redlands Municipal Code Title 15 adopts and amends the California Building and Residential Codes, based on the model International Building Code and others (e.g., California Electrical Code) by reference. Structural fire protection standards are addressed in the building codes and address structural hardening requirements for buildings located within a High Fire Hazard Area as defined by CAL FIRE/Office of the State Fire Marshal and consistent with Chapter 7A of the California Building Code. Structural hardening requirements address roofing, exterior coverings, decking materials, windows and doors, eaves, and vents, among others. The intent of these requirements is to minimize the potential for structural ignition through radiant or convective heat exposure or ember intrusion. Defensible Space & Fire -Resistant Vegetation Practices California Fire Code Chapter 49 mandates that new developments in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas establish wildfire safety measures, including the creation of defensible space around structures. Developers must produce a Fire Protection Plan to document strategies mitigating wildfire risks through a variety of measures. This includes ensuring defensible space by maintaining a minimum 30-foot buffer zone around buildings, consisting of defensible zones designed to slow the spread of fire. Vegetation must be properly managed and fire-resistant construction materials consistent with California Building Code Chapter 7A or California Residential Code Section 337. Additionally, fire access roads, water supply, and firefighting infrastructure must meet specific standards to ensure effective emergency response and evacuation. These requirements aim to reduce the risk to life and property in fire -prone areas. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 30 Existing Development & Structures Mitigation Features for Existing Structures Two of the most important wildfire mitigation features are vegetation management and home hardening structures with exterior wildfire defense features. It is important to note, like many WU I LRA regions across the California, the parcel layouts and Building Code requirements at the time of original development for the CWPP Planning area did not require these mitigation features highlighted below. Similarly, there are very limited, if any, thresholds that require parcels to retroactively install these mitigations. The Redlands CWPP acknowledges these factors and emphasizes a proactive, voluntary compliance approach for existing parcels. The sections below are a summary of mitigation and preparedness features reflected on the CAL FIRE Ready for Wildfire Website. Additional information and details can be obtained at https://readyforwildfire.org/. Zones described below are based on the infographic examine in Figure 9. Defensible Space and Vegetation Management Zone 0 — Ember Resistant Zone Zone 0 is crucial for wildfire defense and preventing fires from spreading to structures. To enhance protection, replace combustible mulch with gravel, pavers, or concrete. Dead weeds, grass, and debris should be cleared regularly, and roofs, gutters, and outdoor areas should be checked for fire hazards. Branches should be kept at least 10 feet away from chimneys and stovepipes, and combustible items like furniture and planters should be minimized on decks. Firewood and lumber should be moved to Zone 2 for safety, and combustible fencing and gates should be replaced with fire-resistant materials. Garbage and recycling containers should be shifted to a safer area outside this zone, and boats, RVs, and vehicles should be relocated to reduce fire risks. Zone 1— Lean, Clean, and Green Zone Zone 1 extends 30 feet from buildings, structures, decks, or to the property line, whichever is closer. In this zone, all dead plants, grass, and weeds should be cleared, and dead leaves and pine needles must be removed from the yard, roof, and gutters. Overhanging branches should be trimmed to maintain a 10-foot distance from chimneys, and trees should be regularly trimmed to keep a 10-foot gap between them. Wood piles should be moved to Zone 2, and flammable plants and shrubs near windows should be pruned. To further reduce fire risk, flammable vegetation and items must be cleared from under decks, balconies, and stairs. Adequate space should be maintained between trees, shrubs, and combustible items like patio furniture and wood piles. Zone 2 — Reduce Fuel Zone Zone 2 extends from 30 to 100 feet away from buildings, structures, decks, and other features, or to the property line if it's closer. To reduce fire risk in this zone, annual grass should be trimmed to a maximum height of 4 inches. Shrubs and trees should be spaced out horizontally, and there must be adequate vertical spacing between grass, shrubs, and trees to prevent the spread of fire. Fallen leaves, needles, and small branches should be cleared, though up to 3 inches can remain. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 31 Keep wood piles must at least 10 feet away from any surrounding vegetation, down to the soil. Additionally, outbuildings and LPG tanks should have a 10-foot clearance to bare soil, with no flammable vegetation within another 10 feet around them to minimize fire risk. Exterior Structure Home Hardening Wildfire Mitigation Features Roof & Gutter Features When replacing roofs opt for a Class A fire -rated material to enhance fire resistance. Seal any gaps between roof covering and sheathing using non-combustible materials, such as bird stops. Add non-combustible covers to gutters to prevent the build-up of leaves and debris. Chimney, Stovepipe and Attic Vent Features • Install a non-combustible, corrosion -resistant metal mesh screen (spark arrestor) over chimney and stovepipe outlets, with openings between 3I8-inch to 1/2-inch. • Use ember- and flame -resistant vents. Consult with the Redlands Building and Safety Division and hire a licensed contractor, as these modifications may affect airflow. • Seal any gaps larger than 1/8-inch around exposed rafters and blocking to prevent ember infiltration into the attic or other enclosed spaces. • Check the exterior siding for dry rot, gaps, cracks, or warping. Seal gaps greater than 1/8- inch in the siding and replace any damaged boards, including those with dry rot. Door and Window Features • Apply weather stripping to gaps larger than 1/8-inch between garage doors and their frames to prevent ember intrusion, ensuring the weather stripping meets UL Standard 10C. • When replacing windows, choose multi -paned windows with at least one pane of tempered glass. • Protect operable skylights by covering them with a non-combustible metal mesh screen with openings no larger than 1/8-inch. Deck and Siding Features • When updating sidings or decks, use materials that are non-combustible, ignition - resistant, or compliant with fire-resistant standards. • Apply a minimum 6-inch metal flashing vertically on the exterior wall where the deck meets the wall to protect combustible siding materials. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 32 Figure 9. Defensible Space Distance Infographic (Image credit: httpsY1readyforwildfire.orglprepare-for- wild fireldefensible-space/] Critical Infrastructure Igni#ability Reduction The majority of critical infrastructure located within the City of Redlands CWPP Planning area WUI portion is constructed of noncombustible materials. This includes aboveground water supply reservoir tanks, high voltage power transmission lines, and cellular communication tower sites. Future critical infrastructure projects will be required to incorporate exterior wildfire mitigation features per the current California Building Code, or equivalent design standards. Redlands Conservancy The Redlands Conservancy plays an integral role in land stewardship for the San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary and Herngt 'Aki' Preserve. These areas offer diverse ecosystems, including riparian, grassland, and chaparral habitats. It supports local wildlife while providing recreational opportunities through two historic trails, the Cocomaricopa and Carriage Trails. The Conservancy actively works on wildfire preparedness, including fuel load reduction and vegetation management, notably by addressing non-native plant species. Additionally, trail maintenance is [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 33 crucial, with ongoing restoration and improvements such as signage, benches, and regular volunteer -driven trail care to ensure safe, sustainable use for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Wildfire Response and Suppression Capabilities An assessment of the wildfire response and suppression capabilities within the City of Redlands CWPP was undertaken to evaluate whether the current resources, organization, and strategies are appropriate for the expected wildfire impingements, and if not, what requires improvement. The following was evaluated: Pre -Fire Planning and Decision Capacities • Fire Response Resources and Capacities • Evacuation Resources and Capacities From this evaluation the following has been determined: • The Pre -Fire Planning & Decision Capacities meet the needs for CWPP Planning Area. • Fire Response Resources and Capacities are robust for the CWPP Planning Area. • Current Evacuation Resources and Capacities provide a solid foundation for further efforts including routine vegetation management in the public right-of-way adjacent to roadways, with priority for those that serve as evacuation corridors. Planning and Decision Support In 2023 and 2024, the Redlands Fire Department participated in the creation of the regional San Timoteo Canyon area Wildfire Urban Interface Fire Operations Plan. This customized WUI Fire Operations Plan addresses a broad range of factors including the fire history, predominant vegetation type, access and related aspects to develop a coordinated approach fire responses in the area. Plan development included tabletop meetings, tour of the area including Smiley Blvd, Boyscout Rd, identified safety zones, temporary refuge areas, and staging areas. This input and additional evaluation was conducted by the consultant firm Rohde & Associates coordinated through a grant opportunity from San Bernardino County Fire Protection District. This was a significant effort and is a great step towards planning and response commonality within the County and the City of Redlands CWPP area. Fire Response Resources California is home to a range of federal, state, and local fire protection agencies that work closely together through mutual aid agreements and collaborative efforts. Key organizations like the California Wildfire Coordinating Group, the Northern and Southern California Geographic Area Coordination Centers (GACCs), and FIRESCOPE play a central role in coordinating these efforts. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 34 Agencies such as California Emergency Management, CAL FIRE, and the US Forest Service (USFS) provide a robust wildfire response capacity, ready to be deployed across the state. This network is often considered one of the most robust wildfire suppression systems in the country. Local Response The communities contained within the City of Redlands CWPP area boundaries are primarily served by the City of Redlands Fire Department (RFD). City of Redlands Fire Department The City of Redlands Fire Department (RFD) has grown from a volunteer organization founded in 1888 to a full -service, all -hazard organization with a 35-skluare-mile service area. RFD's mission is to provide a safe, professional and courteous team that strives to exceed the expectations of the community and our organization. This mission requires our members to be part of a capable, aggressive, all-risk fire department that is focused on "Preserving the Past and Protecting the Future" of those we serve. The Department is structured into several key functions: Fire Administration - Fire Administration Division provides general department oversight, monitors effectiveness of current programs, determines future needs of the department, and develops plans of action to achieve departmental goals. Fire Administration provides support to all Fire Department divisions, as well as four separate fire stations throughout the city. This Division consists of the Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief of Operations, an Administrative Battalion Chief, a Management Analyst, and two Senior Administrative Assistants. Fire Suppression - The Fire Suppression Division, under the leadership of the Deputy Chief, is supported by the Administrative Battalion Chief. With 57 dedicated personnel responsible for frontline operational duties, the department operates four 3-person engines, a 4-person ladder truck, a 2-person paramedic squad, and one Battalion Chief per 24-hour shift. Community Risk Reduction — The Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Division operates under the direction of the Fire Chief and consists of the Fire Marshal, one Deputy Fire Marshal, two Fire Prevention Inspectors, and one Administrative Assistant II. Operating under the guidelines of the California Fire Code (CFC) as adopted by the State of California and the City of Redlands, the Community Risk Reduction Division provides an all -hazards approach to life and fire safety, safeguarding the community from fire and other hazards through education, engineering, enforcement, evaluation, and analysis. The CRR Division oversees the weed abatement program and fuels management projects. Emergency Medical Services — The Emergency Medical Services Division is overseen by the Deputy Chief and consists of an Emergency Medical Service Coordinator. The EMS Coordinator ensures compliance with federal, state, and county procedures and protocol as well as keeps pace with increased demands for service. This program is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-level advanced life support pre -hospital care by well - trained personnel, as well as meeting the education and delivery standards required by the State of California to ensure this level of service. The highly trained Paramedics functions as an extension of the emergency room doctor and with his/her regulatory [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 35 control can administer the necessary medical treatment to stabilize the patient before transport to the hospital. Paramedics presently respond from all fire stations. Emergency Management - The Emergency Management Division utilizes planning, training, and exercises to continually develop and sustain the City's mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities. These capabilities minimize the loss of life and property and protect the environment from emergencies and significant disruptions. The Emergency Operations Division works with the city departments, other local municipalities, and an array of community -based organizations to ensure that the city and its residents have the resources and information they need to prepare, respond and recover from emergencies, disasters, and significant events. RFD is responsible for initial attack and suppression of all fires within the City of Redlands, which is designated as a Local Responsibility Area (LRA). An LRA is a region where the local government is responsible for fire response. RFD has four fire stations throughout the city (Figure 2). The need for two additional fire stations to continue to provide high levels of service and coverage as the City continues to grow in density as well as peripheral development has been identified and in the fire station master plan and City's capital improvement project priorities. State Response & Wildland Fire Protection Agreement for Redlands California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) CAL FIRE is responsible for the fire protection and stewardship of over 31 million acres of California's privately -owned wildlands, known as the "State Responsibility Area" (SRA). While there are no SRA portions in the City of Redlands CWPP Area, adjacent areas to jurisdictional boundaries are classified as SRA. Wildland Fire Protection Agreement for Redlands With its vast size and population, California requires a coordinated effort from multiple agencies to effectively respond to emergencies such as wildland and structure fires, floods, earthquakes, hazardous material spills, and medical aids. That is why the CAL FIRE Cooperative Fire Protection Program plays a crucial role in bringing state, federal, and local agencies together through contracts and agreements. These agreements allow CAL FIRE to be the lead agency in providing fire, rescue, dispatch, and paramedic services to cities and towns in California that are not designated as state responsibility. This unified command relationship ensures that all resources are utilized to the fullest potential during emergencies, leading to greater success in response efforts. The CAL FIRE Cooperative Fire Protection Program staff are dedicated to coordinating these agreements and contracts, ensuring that emergency response in California is carried out smoothly and effectively. For over two decades the City of Redlands and CAL FIRE have operated a Wildland Fire Protection Agreement for areas within the City's CWPP Planning Area to augment existing city fire department resources specifically for wildland fire fighting services. The Wildland Fire Protection Agreement for the Redlands CWPP Planning Area includes 5,985 acres. A map of the Wildland Fire Protection Agreement area is included in Figure 10. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 36 Placeholder: CAL FIRE will provide properly formatted map for final version of CWPP Figure 10. CAL FIRE— City of Redlands Wildland Fire Protection Agreement Map [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 37 Federal Response Bureau of Land Management (BLM) The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) provides wildfire response and management for over 245 million acres of public lands. These lands are considered Federal Responsibility Areas (FRAs), which are regions where the federal government is responsible for fire response. On BLM land, the BLM has the responsibility for initial attack (initial response). The BLM maintains mutual aid agreements with CAL FIRE, the County of San Bernardino, and the local response agencies. Under the agreements, agency personnel may respond to incidents outside their agency boundaries. There are approximately 5 undeveloped vacant parcels managed by the Bureau of Land Management are located in the City of Redlands CWPP Planning Area. These parcels are landlocked in the Santa Ana River wash, in proximity to the northern portion of Redlands. The City of Redlands collaborates with Bureau of Land Management during emergency responses and planning for this area. Mutual Aid The wildland fire community is well known for its development of mutual aid agreements at the federal, state, and local levels. Such automatic aid agreements allow for closest forces to respond to an incident as quickly as possible regardless of jurisdiction. Such agreements may also describe how reimbursement will be conducted; state resources responding to wildfires on federal land may have their associated costs reimbursed by the responsible federal agency, and the reverse is true for federal resources suppressing a wildfire on state land. Evacuation Resources Effective evacuations are accomplished by timely notifications and orderly relocation of community members. Emergency Alert System The City of Redlands' emergency alert system provides residents with crucial, real-time information during emergencies, such as wildfires, floods, or other natural disasters. By signing up, individuals can receive customized alerts directly to their preferred communication channels — such as text messages, emails, or phone calls —ensuring that they stay informed about potential threats in their area. This system allows for timely notifications regarding evacuation orders, road closures, shelter locations, and other critical updates, helping residents make informed decisions and take appropriate actions to protect themselves and their families during emergencies. The emergency alert system also offers the flexibility to choose how and when alerts are received, increasing accessibility and personalizing the experience for each user. This service ensures that both individuals with disabilities and those living in remote areas can receive emergency updates tailored to their specific needs. By registering, residents not only enhance their own safety but also contribute to the overall efficiency of the city's emergency response efforts, as local authorities can more effectively communicate with the public and provide guidance during crisis situations. The City's emergency alert system has integrated communications with the San Bernardino County Emergency Alert System. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 38 The current emergency alert system is hosted on the Smart911 platform was an action item identified in the early stages of this CWPP development: It was implemented ahead of timeframe objective in November 2023. The Redlands Fire Department strives to mail parcel representatives registration information for the emergency alert system annually in the spring, as well as ongoing community relation opportunities at public events. Road Systems The roadways of the Redlands CWPP Planning area are key features of the wildfire evacuation routes for the region. Primary evacuation corridors include the following: Live Oak Canyon Road, San Timoteo Canyon Road, Beaumont Avenue, Allesandro Road, Garden/Cajon Street, Ford Road, Reservoir Road, Wabash Avenue, Alta Vista Drive, Outer Highway 10 and the Sunset Drive loop. Secondary evacuation corridors include: Terracina Boulevard, Cypress Avenue, Crescent Avenue, Center Street, Interstate 10, Barton Road, Highland Avenue. These roads connect the city to key highways like Interstate 10, which facilitates rapid evacuations to safer locations. The road network is designed to handle increased traffic flow during emergencies, with several secondary routes and local streets offering alternative paths, although congestion can be a concern during large-scale evacuations. One of the key action items identified in the CWPP is the need to establish routine vegetation management in the public right-of-way adjacent to roadways, with priority for those that serve as evacuation corridors. Specific Needs Residents & Assisted Living Facilities Each member of our community may have unique needs during emergency conditions and the CWPP strives to provide as much preparedness resources as possible. Southern California Edison Critical Care Backup Battery Program Southern California Edison's (SCE) Critical Care Backup Battery Program is designed to support customers who depend on electrical -powered medical equipment for their health and well-being. This program provides eligible customers with a backup battery to ensure they can continue using essential medical devices during power outages. The program aims to give peace of mind by offering a reliable power source for a limited time, especially during unexpected disruptions in service. Customers who qualify for the program, such as those using life-support equipment or other critical medical devices, are provided with a backup battery that is sized to meet their specific needs. To be eligible for the Critical Care Backup Battery Program, customers must be registered with SCE's Medical Baseline Program and meet the criteria outlined for critical care needs. The backup batteries provided are not intended to supply long-term power during extended outages, but they can be used to power essential medical devices for several hours, depending on the equipment's power needs. The program is an important resource for vulnerable individuals, ensuring they have an extra layer of protection and support during emergencies or planned power outages. Customers interested in the program can apply through SCE's website or customer service phone center at 1-800-736-4777. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 39 Assisted Living Facilities Preparedness It is essential for residential care and facility management to regularly review and update the Facility Emergency Disaster Plan (California Department of Social Service Community Care Licensing Form 610DIE) to ensure the safety of clients and staff during an emergency. Key components of this plan include ensuring that all staff are thoroughly familiar with the total facility evacuation procedures and are prepared to act quickly in the event of an emergency. Additionally, arrangements should be verified for providing sufficient vehicle evacuation of all clients and staff. The plan must also identify multiple vehicle routes out of the community to account for potential obstructions, ensuring smooth and efficient evacuations even if some routes become blocked. As part of disaster preparedness, signing up for emergency alert systems is a crucial step in keeping staff and residents informed. Facility managers should register for both the City of Redlands and San Bernardino County Emergency Alert Systems, ensuring they receive real-time updates on emergencies. It is recommended that at least one staff member from each shift be subscribed to these systems to guarantee round-the-clock awareness. Furthermore, for residences in Wildfire Hazard Severity Zones, it is highly encouraged to install low-cost retrofit protection features and maintain defensible space around structures: Further information reflected in the Ignitability Measures for Structures & Critical Infrastructure section of this CWPP. The Redlands Fire Department strives to mail Assisted Living Facilities information for the emergency alert system registration, evacuation preparedness, and home hardening information annually in the spring. Community Emergency Response Team The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program in Redlands is a volunteer -based initiative that trains local residents to assist in disaster situations and support emergency response efforts. The program is designed to prepare individuals to respond effectively in the aftermath of natural disasters, such as earthquakes, wildfires, or other emergencies, when professional responders may be delayed or overwhelmed. CERT members receive hands-on training in areas such as first aid, search and rescue, fire safety, and disaster preparedness, which enables them to provide vital assistance to their community during times of need. In addition to training, the CERT program fosters a sense of community and encourages neighbors to help each other during emergencies. The City of Redlands provides various resources and opportunities for residents to get involved in CERT, including volunteer positions and participation in ongoing disaster response drills. Through this program, participants not only learn essential skills but also become an integral part of their community's emergency preparedness efforts. CERT members play a crucial role in enhancing local resilience, ensuring that residents are equipped to respond to disasters and assist with recovery efforts. The CERT Team plays an integral role during the evacuation stage by staffing evacuation and relocation centers. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 44 Monitoring & Updates Redlands Fire Department Community Risk Reduction and Emergency Management Divisions will be leads for monitoring progress of this CWPP. Updates for this CWPP are anticipated at 5- year intervals, with the next occurring in 2030. It is encouraged to collaboratively develop updates to the City's CWPP and LHMP. Conclusion In conclusion, the City of Redlands Community Wildfire Protection Plan plays a crucial role in enhancing the safety and resilience of the community in the face of increasing wildfire risks. By focusing on wildfire prevention, mitigation, and preparedness, the CWPP provides a strategic framework for reducing the impact of wildfires on residents, businesses, and natural resources. The plan emphasizes the importance of collaboration between local government agencies, emergency responders, and residents to implement proactive measures, such as defensible space creation, vegetation management, and public education. These efforts are essential to minimize fire hazards and protect lives and property in wildfire -prone areas. Furthermore, the CWPP outlines specific actions and priorities to improve response capabilities and recovery efforts in the event of a wildfire. By identifying high -risk zones, evaluating infrastructure, and promoting community -wide participation in wildfire mitigation, the plan ensures that Redlands is better prepared to address future fire threats. Ongoing updates to the plan, combined with active engagement from the community, will continue to strengthen Redlands' ability to prevent and respond to wildfires, fostering a safer, more resilient environment for current and future generations. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 11 Page 41 Appendices & References Appendix A: Public Outreach and Engagement Public Outreach and Engagement Overview As part of the development process for the Redlands Community Wildfire Protection Plan, a comprehensive public outreach effort was conducted to engage local residents, stakeholders, and community organizations. This outreach included public presentations, attending community meetings, and electronic media distribution designed to gather input and raise awareness about wildfire risks and mitigation strategies. Public participation was encouraged to ensure the plan reflected the concerns and priorities of the community, fostering a collaborative approach to wildfire preparedness. Additionally, the outreach efforts provided valuable educational resources on fire prevention, defensible space, and emergency response, empowering residents to take proactive steps in reducing their vulnerability to wildfires. By incorporating community feedback, the CWPP aims to create a more effective and inclusive approach to managing wildfire risks in the Redlands CWPP Planning Area. City of Redlands Disaster Council Presentation On January 27, 2025, the Redlands Fire Department hosted a presentation on the Community Wildfire Protection Plan at the City of Redlands Disaster Council Meeting. The presentation provided an overview of the CWPP, highlighting its goals of enhancing wildfire preparedness, prevention, and mitigation strategies within the community. Key topics included the identification of high -risk wildfire zones, the importance of defensible space, and recommended actions for reducing fire hazards. The Fire Department emphasized the need for ongoing community involvement and collaboration to ensure the plan's success. The meeting also served as a platform for local officials, emergency responders, and community members to discuss the plan's implementation and address any concerns or questions regarding wildfire risk management in the Redlands area. CWPP Draft Distribution to Key Community Stakeholder Groups In February 2025, the draft version of the Redlands Community Wildfire Protection Plan was distributed to key community stakeholder groups for public comment, including the Redlands Unified School District, Redlands Community Hospital, Southern California Edison, Southern California Gas Company, San Bernardino Flood Control Department, Inland Empire Resource Conservation Department, and the Redlands Conservancy. These organizations play critical roles in the community's infrastructure, safety, and environmental management, making their feedback essential to the development of the CWPP. By engaging these stakeholders, the City of Redlands ensured that the plan addressed a wide range of concerns related to wildfire prevention, emergency response, and resource management, fostering a collaborative approach to strengthening the community's resilience to wildfire threats. CWPP Draft Posted for Public Input Period The draft version of the Redlands Community Wildfire Protection Plan was made available for public input on the City of Redlands website from February 2, 2025, to March 3, 2025. During this period, residents and stakeholders were encouraged to review the plan and provide feedback to help refine and improve the document. Public input was directed to the city's central email account [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 42 at fireprevention@cityofredlands.org or via phone at 909-798-7601. This open comment period provided an opportunity for the community to voice concerns, suggest improvements, and contribute to the final version of the CWPP, ensuring that the plan reflects the needs and priorities of Redlands residents in addressing wildfire mitigation. City of Redlands City Council Adoption Resolution For final adoption process, the Redlands Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) is slated to accepted as a City Council resolution during the upcoming meeting on March 4th, 2025. Following a thorough public comment period, including input from community members and key stakeholders, the draft plan has been revised and prepared for formal approval. The City Council's resolution will officially adopt the CWPP, making it a guiding document for wildfire prevention, mitigation, and response strategies in Redlands. This step marks a significant milestone in ensuring that the city is well-equipped to address wildfire risks and enhance community safety through coordinated efforts and proactive planning. References California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection - San Bernardino-Inyo-Mono Unit. 2023. "2023/2024 Strategic Fire Plan for the San Bernard ino-Inyo-Mono Unit." San Bernardino. https://www.osfm.fire.ca.gov/media/carl4px4/2023-san-bernad i no-inyo-mono-u nit-fire- plan.pdf. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. 2024. "2024 CAL FIRE Strategic Plan." Sacramento. https://calfire.app.box.com/s/obbk6gtv6lriodl6tp6z6gxcngOb2bol. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. 2024. Ready for Wildfire. hftps://readyforwildfire.org/. City of Redlands. 2017. "General Plan 2035." Redlands. https://www. cityofred lands.org/post/planning-d ivision-general-plan. City of Redlands. 2021. "Local Hazard Mitigation Plan." Redlands. https://www. cityofred iands.org/sites/main/files/fii le- attachments/final_city_of_red lands_lhmp_nov_2021 _2. pdf? 1709839804. Rohde & Associates. 2023. "San Timoteo Canyon Wildland Urban Interference Response Plan." U.S. Census Bureau. 2023. "U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023." Washington D.C. https://cacensus.maps.arcgis. com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=48be59de0ba94a 3dacffl c9l l6df8b37. U.S. Department of Homeland Security. 2024. Homeland Infrastructure Foundation -Level Data. hftps://hifld-geoplatform.hub.arcgis.com/. U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency. 2020. National Hazard Risk Index Map Viewer. https://hazards.fema.gov/nri/map. U.S. Fire Administration. 2023. WUI Fire Community Awareness Explorer. https://fema. maps.arcg is.com/apps/dashboards/cOb5823a64574476b4e7cl 726cb6c648. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 43 U.S. Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission. 2023. "Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission Report." Washington D.C. https://www. usda.gov/sites/defau lt/fi les/documents/wfmmc-final-report-09-2023.pdf. [City of Redlands CWPP, Draft Version 1] Page 44