Wildfire Survival Guide: Donnelly's Firewise Event Could Save Your Home—Here’s What You Need to Know

As wildfires become more frequent and intense, Idahoans are scrambling to protect their homes and families. Donnelly is stepping up with a free Firewise event on June 15, offering hands-on training to help residents fortify their properties against disaster. Whether you're a longtime local or new to fire country, this workshop is packed with life-saving strategies.

Why This Event Matters

Last year alone, Idaho saw over 1,200 wildfires scorch nearly half a million acres. Traditional fire safety tips aren't enough anymore—modern wildfires move faster and burn hotter than ever before. This workshop delivers:

• Defensible space secrets – Learn exactly how to rearrange your landscaping to slow approaching flames
• Evacuation planning – Discover the overlooked items most families forget when seconds count
• Home hardening techniques – Simple upgrades that could mean the difference between ashes and survival

What Makes This Training Different

1. Firefighters will conduct live demonstrations showing how embers ignite homes (hint: it's not how most people think)
2. Insurance experts reveal which fire preparations actually lower your premiums
3. Local survivors share firsthand accounts of what worked—and what failed—during recent blazes

Event Details

When: June 15, 9 AM - 2 PM
Where: Donnelly Community Center (123 Pine Ridge Road)
Bonus: Free wildfire risk assessments for the first 50 registrants

What Do You Think?

• Should wildfire preparedness be mandatory for mountain homeowners?
• Are insurance companies doing enough to incentivize fireproofing?
• Could events like this create a false sense of security in high-risk zones?
• Is the government spending too much on firefighting instead of prevention?