As Paradise, California, continues to recuperate from the devastating Camp Fire of 2018, the community is proactively implementing a range of measures to fortify itself against the threat of future wildfires. Situated in the heart of California's wildfire-prone landscape, Paradise is undertaking significant steps to enhance its resilience and protect its residents. From stringent building codes to advanced warning systems, Paradise is leaving no stone unturned in its quest for greater safety.

Embracing Fire-Resistant Construction:

In the wake of the Camp Fire's destruction, Paradise has placed a renewed emphasis on constructing buildings with materials that are highly resistant to fire. Recognizing the importance of mitigating the risk at the wildlife-urban interface (WUI), where human development meets wildland areas, the community is prioritizing the use of fire-resistant materials in all new constructions. New homes in Sherwood Forest Park are being ordered with this option, ensuring greater protection for residents against future wildfires.

Strengthened Building Codes and Enforcement:

Paradise has updated its building codes to incorporate the latest standards for fire safety. Moreover, stringent enforcement mechanisms are being put in place to ensure compliance with these codes, thereby minimizing vulnerabilities and enhancing overall resilience.

Establishment of Fire Protection Zones:

The City of Paradise is taking proactive measures to establish fire protection zones around houses. This initiative aims to reduce the risk of fire spreading and provide firefighters with greater access to protect homes in the event of a wildfire. Some of these measures are: The City of Paradise has been actively engaged in implementing various measures to enhance fire protection and resilience. Sherwood Forest Park is also taking these steps as well as ensuring that flammable items are not allowed within designated zones in the park.

Enhanced Warning Systems:

The inefficiency of sirens during the Camp Fire served as a reminder of the critical need for effective warning systems in Paradise. In response, Paradise has installed a new and improved system to alert residents in the event of an approaching wildfire. The new sirens, similar to a tsunami warning system, are being incorporated into the city’s emergency services, which include mass cell notifications, an emergency call center for people to call, and an AM radio station to broadcast public safety information. The town’s protocol says the sirens and messaging will sound for 10 minutes, followed by intervals of five minutes of silence and five minutes of warnings until the emergency has subsided. 

Road Expansion and Improved Evacuation Routes:

The Town of Paradise is embarking on a comprehensive Transportation Master Plan (TMP) to address road and emergency route improvements following the devastating Camp Fire. This plan includes strategies to widen roads, add turn lanes, and enhance intersections to improve traffic flow and safety. Additionally, the TMP prioritizes the creation of alternative routes and connections to facilitate efficient evacuations during emergencies. The plan emphasizes community engagement and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that road improvements meet the needs of residents and enhance the town's overall resilience against future disasters. Through the implementation of the TMP, Paradise aims to rebuild its transportation infrastructure stronger and more resilient than before. This includes specific focus on Sherwood Forest Park's exit routes, ensuring that residents have multiple avenues for safe evacuation in the event of an emergency.

Paradise, California, stands as a testament to resilience and determination in the face of adversity. By implementing proactive measures such as fire-resistant construction, strengthened building codes, enhanced warning systems, and improved evacuation routes, the community is taking bold steps to protect itself from the threat of wildfires. Sherwood Forest Park has been taking steps to rebuild the community since Camp Fire, with hopes of making the park better than before the fire. With taking fire measures into consideration, bringing in affordable housing, and making our community safer than ever we are excited about what the future holds for Sherwood Forest Park.