Torres Introduces Wildfires Preparedness Week Resolution

Press Release

Representative Norma J. Torres (CA-35) today introduced a resolution to recognize August 22, 2021 -- August 28, 2021 as "Wildfire Preparedness Week" to educate the public on fire safety and preparedness.

Rep. Norma Torres released the following statement:

"Having lost my own home to a fire, I know how critical it is to engage the public on wildfire awareness and preparedness," said Rep. Norma J. Torres. "Wildfires are devastating and costly to Californians, and as our region continues to experience record-breaking heat waves and extremely dry conditions, it is important to prepare for such a disaster. The resolution I am introducing today will support educational initiatives and increase public awareness on measures and precautions that can be taken to save lives and property before and during a wildfire."

"These measures will also assist the firefighters that are on the frontlines protecting our communities from wildfires," continued Rep. Norma J. Torres. "I thank the brave firefighters for dedicating their services and time to battle the various fires threating our region, including the Dixie Fire in Northern California."

Wildfires are an ongoing threat in the western United States. In 2020, wildfires burned over four million acres across California. While 2020 was the worst wildfire year on record for the state, 2021 is already looking like it will surpass 2020. Already this year, California has had more than 6,049 wildfires which have burned over 579,614 acres. Read more here.

The resolution is currently supported by the National Wildfire Suppression Association, Humane Society Legislative Fund, and Defenders of Wildlife and co-sponsored by U.S. House Representatives Mark Takano, Doris Matsui, Jim Costa, Jimmy Panetta, Juan Vargas, Jerry McNerney, Jared Huffman, Judy Chu, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Jimmy Gomez, Karen Bass, Maxine Waters, Julia Brownley, Tony Cardenas, Luis Correa, Grace F. Napolitano, Ted Lieu, Linda Sanchez, Alan Lowenthal, Katie Porter, Jackie Speier, Nanette Barragan, John Garamendi, Barbara Lee, Eric Swalwell, Mike Thompson, Mark DeSaulnier, Adam Schiff, Zoe Lofgren, Mike Levin, and Peter Aguilar.

Torres recently announced provisions she secured in the House Appropriations Committee to prevent wildfires. These provisions will subsequently be considered by the full House of Representatives. To learn more, click here.

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