On a warm Saturday morning, the picturesque Bates Nut Farm in Valley Center was transformed into a bustling scene of activity as hundreds of locals gathered for San Diego Gas & Electric’s (SDG&E) final wildfire safety fair of the year. This event, held in late August, was the fourth in a series of fairs aimed at educating the community on wildfire preparedness and safety. In a year marked by intense fire activity across California, the importance of the event could not be overstated.  

As families and community members explored display booths chatted with regional safety partners, the vibe was a mix of urgency and togetherness. The fair, which featured demonstrations, safety tips and the latest in wildfire prevention technology, served as a critical touchpoint for a region that knows all too well the dangers of wildfires. 

“The busy start to our fire season this year has been a reminder of how vital it is for all of us to be prepared,” said Brian D’Agostino, vice president of wildfire and climate science at SDG&E. “Maintaining the safety of our customers and the communities we serve remains a core value of our team at SDG&E and these fairs are just one way we’re working to ensure everyone has the information and tools they need to stay safe.” 

D'Agostino’s words echoed the sentiments of many at the event, where the need for preparation was a recurring theme.  

Building Resilience Together  

The fair brought together a diverse group of participants, including regional firefighting partners, emergency response organizations and safety experts. Community partners included:  

• CAL FIRE / San Diego County Fire 

• American Red Cross 

• 2-1-1 San Diego 

• Access and Functional Needs 

• Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) 

• San Diego Animal Services 

• San Diego Humane Society 

Locals had the opportunity to talk with firefighters, learn about evacuation routes and fire-resistant building materials, and explore interactive exhibits featuring the latest technologies and strategies for wildfire prevention and emergency preparedness. 

The event also featured live demonstrations on ways to create defensible space around homes, a critical step in preventing the spread of wildfires.  

“We can’t do this alone,” said Fire Captain Michael Cornette of CAL FIRE, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in wildfire preparedness.  “Every homeowner, every resident has a role to play in protecting their property and their neighbors. Creating defensible space, having an emergency plan and staying informed can make all the difference when a fire is threatening your home.”  

Community members were eager to share their experiences and what they’ve learned. Anna Sakadjian, a longtime San Diego resident who has lived through several wildfire seasons, attended the fair with her dog. “There is something for everyone here! Aside from the free emergency kit resources, I’m impressed by the shared effort from community leaders, neighbors, and SDG&E in promoting safety and preparedness,” she said.   

As SDG&E wrapped up its 2024 series of wildfire safety fairs, the message was clear: in a year of unprecedented wildfire activity, preparedness is more important than ever. The fair served as a reminder that wildfire safety is a collective effort, one that requires vigilance, preparation, and regional collaboration.