Wildfire season has already begun in New Mexico, and the danger is rising fast. People living in areas like the East Mountains near Tijeras are feeling the pressure. With dry conditions and only a few ways to escape in an emergency, many residents are worried and preparing early.
Residents on High Alert in Tijeras
Local people in Sandia Knolls and other parts of the East Mountains are especially concerned. With only one road in and out, quick evacuation can be a real challenge. “That’s our biggest fear,” said Dottie Melendez, a resident in the area. Carla Miszkiel added, “We are very on edge because the fire danger is high up here.”
Meeting Held to Prepare for Fire Season
On Thursday, dozens of residents gathered at the Los Vecinos Community Center. The meeting was led by Bernalillo County officials to help people prepare for the wildfire season. Some residents, like Ernie Barnes, are already taking steps to stay safe. “We cleared about 100 feet of trees around our house,” he said, explaining how they’ve been preparing for two years.
What Is ‘Defensible Space’?
Clearing trees, brush, and dead vegetation around your home is known as creating a “defensible space.” Joshua Skrondahl, the wildland coordinator for Bernalillo County Fire Rescue (BCFR), explained that this helps stop fire from spreading to homes. He warned that small embers can fly up to a mile and settle into tiny cracks or old wood, which can quickly start fires.
“They find little penetrations, old wood, whatever it may be, and they embed themselves in there and then start a fire,” Skrondahl said. That’s why sealing cracks and clearing flammable materials near homes is so important.
Planning for Evacuation
Christine McFall, another East Mountains resident, said the main focus now is figuring out how to leave safely if a fire comes close. “Our main goal is figuring out evacuation plans and safety for the particular area we live in,” she said.
County leaders also spoke about the importance of having a “Go Bag” ready. This includes emergency items like clothes, important papers, water, and food. They discussed the “Ready, Set, Go” system, where people should be aware of the fire danger level and be ready to leave quickly when needed.
Officials Give a Clear Warning
BCFR Chief Greg Perez made it clear: if people decide to stay when a fire is coming, they are putting their lives at risk. “We are not going to jeopardize the safety of our men and women to go in and save you if you made the choice to stay in danger’s way,” he said. It’s a strong reminder that safety must come first.
Wildfire season is just starting in New Mexico, but people in Tijeras and the East Mountains are already preparing. From clearing trees to planning escape routes, the focus is on staying safe. Officials are urging residents to take early steps now because when the fire comes, every second counts. Creating defensible space and planning ahead can make all the difference when facing nature’s danger.
