Disaster Preparedness

Backcountry Communities Thriving is a proud supporter of San Diego County Fire's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). In fact, BCT's Executive Director is a certified CERT trainer and the Julian CERT Central Division Program Manager. 

Read the "A Firefighter's Concise Guide to Disaster Preparedness" written by a former Julian Cuyamaca Fire Protection District volunteer fire fighter.  Tips in this guide will help you to prepare yourself, your home and your neighbors in the event of a disaster.

Be Prepared!

Know Your Neighbor

Being the a rural community like Julian, means having to rely on yourself and your community.  Get to know your neighbors so that an emergency situation, you will have a network of people to step in and help. 

Protect Your Home from Wildfires

Defensible space is one of the most important steps you can take to improve your home's chance of surviving a wildfire. Defensible Space is the buffer you create between a structure on your property and the grass, trees, shrubs, and any wildland area that surrounds it. This space is needed to slow or stop the spread of wildfire. It helps protect your home from catching fire from embers, direct flame contact or radiant heat.

Zone 0 = Ember Resistant Zone is the first 0 to 5 feet from buildings, structures, decks, etc.

Zone 1 = Lean, Clean and Green Zone extends from 50 feet around buildings, structures, etc.

Zone 2 = Reduce Fuel Zone is the next 50 to 100 feet of clearance around your home, decks, etc.

The Fire Safe Council of San Diego County can assist you with creating your defensible space through their Defensible Space Assistance Program (DSAP). The services provided are:

Know Your Hazards Tool

Enter your address at https://www.readysandiego.org/know-your-hazards/ to learn about the hazards around your area. Explore the hazards and learn preparedness activities.

List of Items Recommended for your Emergency Kit/Go Bag


(List of items provided by San Diego Regional Fire Foundation)