Hot Times

While in Australia, the temperatures here in the Crescenta Valley were rather high. In addition, fires were reported in the southland, but Mary O’Keefe was quick to assure me that the Valley was in no danger.

Though it was still hot when we arrived home, most of the fires had been contained. That picture has definitely changed. The Tick Fire, the Saddle Ridge Fire, the Old Water Fire, the Palisades Fire, the Getty Fire,  theHill Fire and the Easy Fire have kept or are keeping firefighters busy.

Waking up on Wednesday just after the Easy Fire started, and seeing how fast it spread, reminded me that conditions are ripe for our Verdugo Mountains to burn. Though the Station Fire in 2009, and subsequent floods, and the La Tuna Fire were devastating, the Verdugo Mountains were pretty much unscathed. With years of growth as fuel, I shudder to think what damage would be done if fire touched the area.

The extreme winds that many areas have experienced worsened the situations. Considering that fires create their own wind, too, added to the danger.

I know that when the wind advisory was given earlier this week, described as an epic event that we hadn’t experienced in a decade, Steve and I were quick to bring in the cushions from the backyard patio furniture before we hunkered down. In my humble opinion, the Crescenta Valley seemed to be spared from the majority of the onslaught by Mother Nature.

However, that mercy will not always be given. CERT reminds us that the Crescenta Valley has experienced fires, floods and earthquakes – with preparation for a major earthquake being of the utmost importance.

Just because the winds subside, we should not be complacent about the dangers that still surround us – and we should be prepared.

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Happy Halloween and remember that this evening trick-or-treaters will be out collecting their candy. Be careful when driving around town and keep your eyes open; kids are not known for being alert.

  robin goldsworthy