Creating safer evacuation routes

We work with many different experts to assess the risk from wildfires. We work with: 

• Fire scientists, who use data and models to determine what areas are most at risk for damage from wildfires.
• Arborists, who assess the health of trees and shrubs along evacuation routes. They can identify areas where we need to remove overhanging branches or dead tree limbs.
• Biologists, who survey areas where we are planning to conduct vegetation management projects. Biologists look for endangered plants and animals, and help make sure we are working in sensitive environments safely.

When evaluating which evacuation routes need improvement, we look at areas that have: 

• Lots of dense vegetation along the road
• A lack of vehicle access
• A lack of cell phone service
• Lots of vehicle traffic

We want to make sure evacuation routes:

• Offer good visibility for all drivers
• Allow our firetrucks easy access
• Have improved visibility and sightlines 

We work with local Marin partners to improve the safety of evacuation routes throughout the County. We focus on evacuation routes to make sure that residents can leave safely in the event of a wildfire. These roads are also important for allowing our fire crews to access a wildfire safely. 

These projects are funded through California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), Marin County and local Fire Departments, and the Marin Wildfire Protection Agency.