One year after the Pacific Palisades fire, which highlighted the increasing wildfire risk facing California communities, the Piedmont Garden Club is inviting residents to take part in a timely discussion on preparedness titled “Living With Wildfire.”
The Pacific Palisades fire, which burned in January 2025, served as a reminder that wildfire danger is no longer limited to rural areas. Suburban and urban neighborhoods, including those in the East Bay, face growing risk due to changing climate conditions, dense development, and landscaping choices.
The Living With Wildfire program, featuring Piedmont Fire Chief Dave Brannigan and photographer Saxon Holt, will present essential practices to help keep your home safe from wildfires and showcase effective fire-wise landscaping techniques you can use. Chief Brannigan will also explain the importance of the recent designation of Piedmont as a Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) and the adoption of the State’s new WUI Fire Code.
Examples of landscaping that incorporates a five-foot “ember resistant zone.” (credit: Saxon Holt)
“Last year’s Palisades Fire was a stark reminder that wildfire isn’t a ‘what if’ — it’s a reality that communities across California need to adapt to, now,” said Brannigan. “The good news is there are practical steps everyone can take today to reduce risk. I’m excited to partner with the Piedmont Garden Club and Saxon Holt to show that outdoor spaces can be both fire-smart and beautiful.”
Organizers encourage homeowners, renters, and gardeners to attend and become part of a broader community effort to prepare for future wildfire seasons.
The event on Jan. 21 at 9:30 a.m. at Piedmont Community Hall is free and open to the public.