Dear Neighbors,
Hope you’re all enjoying summer outdoor time in Wissler Ranch—Colorado summers are the best, but they can also mean a heightened wildfire risk. As we’re all getting excited for our great nation’s 250th birthday and our great state’s 150th, this is a friendly (but firm) reminder to please not set off fireworks within Wissler Ranch.
Fireworks are not permitted in Wissler Ranch, including on individual properties and in the Common Area. Thank you for helping keep our neighborhood safe!
A few other quick reminders:
- El Paso County Fire Restrictions / “Stage” alerts: During especially dry or windy conditions, El Paso County may issue fire restrictions (often labeled Stage One or Stage Two). These are typically announced on the news/radio and sometimes shown on highway message boards. When restrictions are in place, please follow the specific rules and avoid unnecessary outdoor fire risk. Make sure summer visitors are aware to park only on paved surfaces. The county has implemented Stage II Restrictions at this time. Specific guidance is posted on the sheriff’s website – EPCSheriffsOffice.Com/Services/Fire-Information
- Red Flag Days: Keep an eye out for National Weather Service “Red Flag” days. These indicate there is a heightened fire danger and can happen even when there aren’t any current sheriff-issued fire restrictions. Please treat them as extra-care days and follow all local restrictions – Forecast.Weather.Gov
- Grills: If you’re grilling, please stay alert and practice basic grill safety every time. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA, the FireWise people) July traditionally has the highest number of grill-related fires. Something to think about, most of these are caused by propane and natural gas fueled grills! NFPA has great grill safety tips including how to keep kids safe! NFPA.Org
- Note: Outdoor recreational wood fires and charcoal grills and wood pellet smokers are not permitted under El Paso County Stage II restrictions.
- Emergency planning: Essential guidance is available at Ready.gov with information on various types of emergencies and planning checklists. Preplanning assists with safe response and recovery. Of particular importance to us living in wooded areas is being familiar with evacuation routes. Explore a bit and become familiar with alternative ways out of the neighborhood. Ready.gov
- Reducing risk: NFPA’s FireWise program has information on ways to reduce fire risk to properties. Please remember to continue reporting time and materials or dollars spent to FireWise@WisslerRanch.org so that we get credit toward maintaining FireWise Recognition for our neighborhood. NFPA – Preparing homes for wildfire
Thanks, neighbors! Common-sense care makes a real difference—and helps us all enjoy summer safely.