In 2018, the Woolsey Fire swept Malibu, claiming nearly 500 homes, burning almost 100,000 acres, and resulting in three fatalities. Five years later, the city is commemorating the incident and promoting safety through a public open house, set for November 9, at City Hall, as stated on the City of Malibu website.
Since the fire, the city has meaningfully progressed in its recovery efforts. Yesterday, officials had issued 273 building permits for the reconstruction of single-family homes, with 358 more, approved by the Planning Department. Completed projects include 144 single-family homes and 12 multifamily units.
The City of Malibu has supported those affected, extending the Woolsey Fire Rebuild Fee Waiver Program deadline and providing over $5 million in total fee waivers in the past four years. Local authorities have prioritized rebuilding and continuously assisting homeowners, offering valuable resources and guidance.
Emphasizing the need for preparedness and community resilience, Mayor Steve Uhring has urged residents to attend the upcoming event. They will have the chance to meet the Public Safety staff, learn about the city's efforts in wildfire preparedness and resilience, receive a complimentary NOAA weather radio, and get a free copy of the Malibu Survival Guide, as detailed on the City of Malibu website.
The City has suggested ten steps to boost wildfire preparedness, including drafting a wildfire emergency plan, securing necessary supplies, establishing a defensible space around homes, and staying aware of fire weather conditions.
The open house also provides an opportunity to learn about their Evacuation Zone and the County's new Genasys evacuation zones, maps, and website. Visitors can arrange for a home wildfire assessment and discover the City's new Beacon Boxes – installed across Malibu to aid out-of-area firefighters with local information. LA County Fire Department representatives will be in attendance, along with prospects to learn about the Sheriff's Volunteers on Patrol (VOPs) and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) as published on the City of Malibu website.
The City of Malibu continues to prioritize community recovery and rebuilding since the Woolsey Fire, while also proclaiming an Annual Day of Preparedness on November 9 to underline the need for ongoing vigilance in potential wildfire threats.
