Dear Boulders Community Members,
As you may know, there was a fire yesterday behind Safeway. Fortunately, with the assistance of several helicopters, two airplanes, and Truckee Fire, the fire was quickly contained. This is a reminder that all residents should have a Grab and GoBag and be signed up for Code Red. Another helpful place to receive information is through the Watch Duty app. The information in this letter was written last week before the fire. Please read it carefully and reach out to us if you have any questions.
2024 Firewise Committee Members
♦ Julie Ebert ♦
♦ Laurie Mecchi ♦
♦ Glen Rothell ♦
Guided by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Firewise principles, The Boulders has been a Firewise USA® certified community since 2019. We work directly with both Truckee Fire and Cal Fire to establish fire safe practices around the community. We must continually focus on accomplishing goals to maintain our certification. As many of you know and have experienced, insurance companies are canceling homeowners policies in California, especially in areas which are part of the Wildfire Urban Interface (WUI). Alternatively, some insurance companies recognize the importance of Firewise certification, and subsequently offer discounts on homeowners’ insurance policies. It is imperative that we comply with NFPA standards, and we still have work to do around our community. Goals won’t be accomplished quickly, yet we can maintain our compliance by showing we are making progress with fire danger mitigation.
Working closely with Jill Short, the Boulders’ Landscape Committee lead, here are a few of the current Firewise projects in the Boulders Community:
The Five-Foot Zone: the area of defensible space within five feet around our buildings needs to be free of mulch and flammable plants. We are working towards replacing the mulch with gravel and beginning the discussion about removing flammable plants. We are getting quotes on having the trees that are touching rooftops and decks trimmed. We are working with our landscaping company to ensure that future planting comes from the Tahoe Resource Conservation District and Truckee Fire recommended list.
Flammable Items: During their visual inspection, Truckee Fire told us that owners must remove all flammable items from underneath decks. Note: If there are items under your deck that remain from original construction, please create a maintenance request in TownSQ, and Associa will work with you on disposal. Additionally, when leaving your unit for an extended period of time, clear your deck and entry area of combustible items such as chair cushions, umbrellas, carpets, door mats, & other such decor.
Evacuation Plans: Residents should have an evacuation plan, and know our Evacuation Zone TRK-E326.
Location Identification: We will be placing reflective numbers on the bear bins. This is essential for emergencies and for locating our units in the dark. Do not remove these numbers. It is important that all owners and long term renters register with TownSq and follow the Boulders website. Our committee will send updates as we accomplish and establish new goals. We know there is a lot of work to be done throughout the Boulders to prevent a wildfire from destroying our beloved community.
Sincerely,
Julie Ebert, Laurie Mecchi, & Glen Rothell
Your Firewise Committee
If you have questions about the information in this email, or about the Association, please contact Associa Sierra North at 775-626-7333 or email HOATahoe@associasn.com.
