Topanga locals are encouraged to prepare for future fire seasons, one of which unfortunately might be right around the corner. TCEP President, James Grasso says: “If you look at a map of the Santa Monica Mountains from the 405 Freeway to Kanan Dume Rd., the only remaining unburned areas of green are Topanga Canyon and Monte Nido. While the Palisades Fire may feel like it happened just yesterday, a new fire season is already upon us. Now is the time to get ready and prepare.” James offers helpful tips on how one can best get ready for fire season: “The most important thing to do is prepare yourself and your family for evacuation. Take time to think about the important things you want to take with you. Do your brush clearance and harden your home before the Santa Ana winds kick up.”
ReadyFest is a free, family-friendly event which offers the knowledge and resources locals need to strengthen emergency preparedness plans and feel more confident when disaster strikes. The day will be packed with hands-on activities for all ages, delicious free food from World Central Kitchen, music by local DJ Zeek, expert presentations and panel discussions with Q&As, live demonstrations, photo opportunities with Smokey Bear, and exciting raffle prizes. Join ReadyFest, your preparedness community is ready to welcome you.
Some things to ask yourself (and your neighbors!)
- Do you have a household evacuation plan; is your go-bag ready?
- How will you get emergency alerts if the power is out?
- Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher? (Learn by putting out a real fire!)
- Do you know how to use radios for emergency communication?
- Do you have backup power to keep your phone and internet running during outages?
- Do you have a Topanga Access Card for re-entry after evacuation orders are lifted?
- Are you in a TCEP Neighborhood Network; want to create one?
FREE giveaways plus fun extras:
- FREE raffle tickets with entry for a chance to win cool prizes like gift cards from local restaurants and businesses, and free gear to boost readiness like go-bags, earthquake survival kits, and other surprises.
- FREE shuttle service every 30 minutes makes attendance a no-brainer, with six stops along the Boulevard from Viewridge to Pine Tree Circle.
- FREE NOAA Weather Fire Alert Radios.
For tickets and more info, including the full event and shuttle schedule, visit: bit.ly/TopangaRF2025
