Wildfire preparedness essential as dry season approaches
As Eagle Mountain enters its dry season, the City’s emergency management staff are urging residents—particularly those living in high-risk areas—to take proactive steps to prepare for the threat of wildfires.
“Now is the time to get ready,” said Dave Ulibarri, Eagle Mountain City’s Emergency Manager. “If you live in areas where neighborhoods meet wildland vegetation, you should already be thinking about defensible space, evacuation plans, and go kits.”
The city’s terrain makes many neighborhoods part of what’s known as the wildland-urban interface. These areas are especially susceptible to wildfires, which can be fueled by dry brush, high winds and human activity.
“Every neighborhood is a little different,” Ulibarri explained. “But in general, all of the wildland-urban interface areas are at risk. Larger lots, open fields, and properties near the mountains are especially vulnerable. Wind is another major factor—it can push a fire quickly across those open areas.”
Ulibarri emphasized the importance of defensible space: the buffer zone between a home and surrounding vegetation.
Homeowners are encouraged to keep flammable materials at least 30 feet away from structures, regularly clear dead plants and leaves, trim tree branches that hang near roofs, and keep grass mowed to four inches or less.
“If people let brush grow up next to their homes or have wooden decks surrounded by dry weeds, that makes it hard for emergency crews to fight off a fire,” he said. “Creating defensible space around your property gives first responders a better chance of saving your home.”
Another concern is emergency evacuation, especially in areas where roads are limited or homes are more spread out. Ulibarri urged residents to prepare 72-hour “go kits” with essential items, such as medications, food, water, flashlights, and important documents.
According to the City’s wildfire evacuation checklist, residents should also include items like N95 masks, extra phone chargers, pet supplies, and a change of clothes.
“You don’t want to be scrambling when evacuations are called,” Ulibarri said. “Having a go kit ready can buy you valuable time.”
Vehicle readiness is also critical. Ulibarri recommends never letting your gas tank drop below half. Water access is another challenge for wildfire response.
“There aren’t fire hydrants in many of the areas where wildfires start,” said Ulibarri. “We do have portable water tanks we can deploy, but that takes time—and in a fire, time is precious.”
Ulibarri also pointed to common but preventable wildfire risks, including fireworks, illegal burns, and campfires.
In the event of a wildfire, the Unified Fire Authority and the Utah County Sheriff’s Office are the primary responding agencies. However, success in protecting property and lives often starts with community awareness and preparation.
For wildfire preparation tips, including a full evacuation checklist and defensible space guidelines, visit the emergency management page on the City website.