Home safety took center stage at the Agoura Hills Second CWRA Workshop, where community leaders emphasized the importance of home hardening and defensible space practices to combat fire risks. Residents were urged to assess their properties for vulnerabilities, particularly focusing on landscaping and combustible materials that could pose threats during fire emergencies.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the need for homeowners to maintain their yards, removing deadwood and ensuring that trees are well-kept. They pointed out that items like pool noodles and outdoor furniture, often left near homes, can increase fire hazards. "Think about how you live in your home and what those vulnerabilities are," one speaker advised, stressing that even seemingly harmless items can contribute to risks.

In collaboration with the Agoura Hills Fire Safe Council, the city is set to launch a program aimed at enhancing home hardening efforts. Peter Feller from the council was introduced as a key resource for residents, providing information on obtaining mesh for vents to improve fire safety. "We hope to get that information out to the community soon," he noted, encouraging residents to connect with him for further resources.

The workshop also addressed questions about the Firewise community certification process, clarifying that individual homeowners must submit their own insurance certifications to their respective companies. This ensures that each homeowner's insurance policy reflects their unique circumstances and potential discounts related to fire safety measures.

As the meeting concluded, attendees were reminded of the nine evacuation routes available for emergencies, with inquiries made about their visibility on the Agoura Hills city website. The discussions underscored a collective commitment to enhancing community safety and preparedness in the face of fire threats.