County launches wildfire prevention and preparedness campaign

Published on March 10, 2026

With wildfire season approaching, the Los Alamos Fire Department (LAFD) and County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) are launching a community-wide wildfire prevention and preparedness campaign encouraging residents to follow the Ready, Set, Go! wildfire action plan and take steps now to protect their homes and families.

LAFD emphasizes that the community should always be in the “Ready” stage—taking proactive steps long before a wildfire threatens the area.

“Wildfires can move quickly,” said LAFD Wildland Division Chief Van Leimer. “Preparation before fire season begins is one of the most important things residents can do to protect their homes, their families, and their neighbors.”

The Ready, Set, Go! program provides a simple framework to help residents prepare and respond during wildfire emergencies.

READY – Be Prepared
Residents should always remain in the Ready stage by preparing their homes and families for wildfire risk. This includes creating defensible space, removing flammable vegetation near structures, cleaning leaves and debris from roofs and gutters, and preparing emergency supply kits. LAFD offers free home assessments to help homeowners evaluate defensible space and identify ways to reduce wildfire risk around their property.

Residents are also encouraged to develop a family evacuation plan, identify multiple evacuation routes, and register for Everbridge emergency alerts to receive important notifications during emergencies.

SET – Be Alert
When wildfire conditions increase or a fire is reported nearby, residents should be ready to leave quickly. During this stage, families should monitor emergency alerts, ensure vehicles are fueled, gather emergency supplies, and stay aware of changing conditions.

GO – Evacuate Immediately
If evacuation orders are issued, residents should leave immediately and follow instructions from emergency officials. Early evacuation helps keep families safe and allows firefighters to focus on protecting lives and property.

“The Ready, Set, Go! framework helps residents understand exactly what to do before and during a wildfire,” said Emergency Management Commander Beverley Simpson. “We want people thinking about preparedness now—before a fire starts.”

Upcoming Community Events

Residents are invited to learn more about wildfire prevention and preparedness at two upcoming events:

The Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) will hold its quarterly meeting on March 18 at 1 p.m. via Zoom, focusing on wildfire preparedness and steps families can take to prepare for emergencies.

The community is also invited to attend the annual Wildfire Day on April 4 at Ashley Pond Park, hosted by the Los Alamos Fire Department, the Elks Lodge and Freedom Church.

“Wildfire Day is a great opportunity for families to learn how emergency responders work together to protect our community,” Fire Chief Erik Litzenberg said. “It’s educational, but it’s also a fun way for kids to see the trucks, equipment, and even the helicopter up close.”

This free, family-friendly event will include information about wildfire prevention and preparedness, opportunities to meet local emergency responders, and up-close views of emergency vehicles and equipment. The event will also include the Elks Lodge Easter Egg Hunt for children and a special appearance by the Easter Bunny, Smoky Bear, Sparky the Fire Dog and Penny the Preparedness Pup.

Residents can find more information about the Ready, Set, Go! program, register for Everbridge emergency alerts, sign up for a home assessment, and view any current fire restrictions from the Fire Marshal by visiting the County website.

“Living in Northern New Mexico means living with wildfire risk,” stressed Chief Leimer. “But the good news is, there are many things residents can do now to reduce that risk and make a real difference in protecting homes, families, and the community during wildfire season.”

For additional information, email LACOEM@lacnm.us.