First Community in Crest-Dehesa-Granite Hills-Harbison Canyon Subregion Recognized as Firewise USA Site

CREST, CA  -- Crest Northeast has become the first community in the subregion to receive official recognition as a Firewise USA® site and the 11th such site in San Diego County by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). This pilot marks a significant step forward in enhancing wildfire preparedness and resilience for residents in the area.

The Firewise USA program provides a framework to help communities reduce wildfire risks by implementing proactive mitigation efforts and fostering collaboration among residents, fire agencies, and emergency management organizations. Communities that earn the Firewise USA® designation commit to reducing wildfire hazards through education, defensible space initiatives, and proactive home-hardening measures.

"The Crest Dehesa Granite Hills Harbison Canyon Planning Group is pleased to recognize this effort, which has resulted in the first community in our subregion earning this important distinction," said Ron Nehring, Chairman of the Crest Dehesa Granite Hills Harbison Canyon Planning Group. "This achievement underscores the community's commitment to wildfire preparedness and encourages other neighborhoods to take action to protect their homes and families."

Information on becoming a Firewise USA site will be provided at the Crest Dehesa Granite Hills Harbison Canyon Planning Group's February 10 meeting, which will be held at the Crest Community Association Clubhouse at 6:30 PM.

Benefits of Becoming a Firewise USA® Site:

• Increased Wildfire Safety: Firewise USA® communities develop strategies to minimize fire risks, making them better prepared to withstand and recover from wildfires.

• Community Collaboration: The program fosters strong relationships between residents, local fire departments, and emergency services to enhance coordinated wildfire response efforts.

• Potential Insurance Benefits: Some insurance providers recognize Firewise USA® communities and may offer policy discounts for homes in designated areas.

• Access to Expert Guidance: Participating communities receive resources and best practices from wildfire mitigation experts to strengthen their resilience.

In 2024 the Crest Dehesa Granite Hills Harbison Canyon Planning Group unanimously passed a resolution supporting all communities in the subregion in their efforts to become Firewise USA® sites. This first recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the local residentswho took the initiative to research, develop and submit the necessary documentation along with support from CalFIRE, San Miguel Fire & Rescue, Alpine Fire Protection District and Sunrise Powerlink Fire Mitigation Group., 

"We encourage other communities in the subregion to follow this example and take the necessary steps to become Firewise USA® recognized," said Chairman Nehring. "Wildfire preparedness is a shared responsibility, and together, we can build a safer and more resilient region."