After the Bridge Fire, life in Wrightwood hasn’t returned to normal just yet. The hillsides we’re used to seeing are bare, and as we look toward winter, residents are now facing a new reality: the danger and flooding that may occur when the rains start. The smell of smoke may have faded, but reminders of the fire are everywhere in Wrightwood. From blackened slopes visible from town to conversations over coffee at the Village Grind, locals know that recovery from the fire is only the beginning of the journey. Thankfully, help is coming from both local and federal agencies, from the folks we see at community meetings to the dedicated team at Wrightwood’s own Fire Safe Council.
Among the immediate needs is debris removal, a crucial first step in rebuilding safely. Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties have worked together to simplify this process for residents. For homes damaged by the fire, the debris removal program begins with hazardous material inspections, followed by structural debris cleanup, with specially designated disposal sites arranged to accommodate the community’s needs. Property owners in high-risk areas are encouraged to use these services and follow safe disposal guidelines, helping to prevent health risks and environmental damage. More information can be found at recovery.lacounty.gov/bridgefire/ for L.A. County residents. For San Bernardino County residents, contact Solid Waste Management Division Fire Debris Coordinator Steve Thom at 909-386-8701.
One essential resource now available is free property assessments, which provide residents with site-specific advice on preventing flood damage. Los Angeles County Public Works, in partnership with state and federal agencies, has conducted extensive mapping of high-risk areas. These maps identify properties most vulnerable to debris flow, allowing residents to take precautions like setting up sandbags and ensuring proper drainage. Local officials also recommend that residents sign up for real-time notifications through the eNotify alert system for L.A. County or the TENS system for San Bernardino County, which provide up-to-date flood warnings and evacuation information. Maps can be viewed at recovery.lacounty.gov/bridgefire/ and prepare.sbcounty.gov/bridge-fire/.
For many homeowners, the financial burden of rebuilding is significant. Property tax relief programs are available for those who lost homes or structures in the fire. In both Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties, residents can apply to reduce their property assessments, bringing them in line with land-only values until homes are rebuilt. A Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Declaration has been declared, which opens access to low-interest loans for homeowners and small businesses. The SBA has established a local Disaster Loan Outreach Center where residents can speak directly with representatives and get guidance on loan options. The Wrightwood Disaster Loan Outreach Center is located at the Wrightwood Library Community Room. The center is open from October 28 through November 19, 2024. Hours are Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Thursday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The center will be closed on Monday, November 11, 2024, for Veterans Day.
Recovery efforts are addressing not just physical needs but the emotional toll that the fire has taken on the community. Recognizing the impact of displacement and loss, the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health has set up resources, including a 988 mental health hotline, to support those experiencing stress or trauma.
With winter approaching, Wrightwood’s Fire Safe Council has shifted its focus to flood preparedness, ensuring that residents know what to do in case of severe rainstorms. The council, which has been instrumental in fire evacuation planning, is adapting the familiar “Ready, Set, Go” approach for flood situations, emphasizing the need for advance preparation and rapid response when needed. The council is distributing updated guidelines to help residents stock essential supplies, establish evacuation routes, and take other measures to protect themselves and their properties. Information can be found on the Wrightwood Fire Safe Council’s webpage at www.wrightwoodfsc.com.
Wrightwood’s resilience shines through in the way neighbors have come together to address the challenges left by the Bridge Fire. The Fire Safe Council and local agencies continue to provide timely updates on their websites and social media. The Bridge Fire started a little over a month ago, and now residents are preparing to face the hazards that winter may bring, underscoring the strength of this community’s commitment to supporting one another.
For further information on property assistance, flood alerts, and recovery services, residents are encouraged to attend community meetings and stay connected through local alert systems. Wrightwood’s community-first approach to rebuilding and readiness demonstrates a dedication to safety and resilience, a commitment that will help the community navigate the recovery process and prepare for whatever lies ahead.
