As the snow melts and we turn our eyes toward summer adventures, we must face a stark reality: with warmer weather comes an increased risk of wildfires in Eagle County. May is Wildfire Preparedness Month, and it serves as an important reminder that preparation isn’t just a good idea, it’s both necessary and essential.

Warmer temperatures, drought, and continued development in the wildland-urban interface have made wildfire mitigation a top priority for Vail and the Eagle County Wildfire Collaborative. Four out of the five largest fires in state history have occurred within the last five years, including the most destructive fire in state history three years ago.

Our local towns, Eagle County, and our local fire districts are taking this threat seriously, investing time, energy, and resources into wildfire mitigation. But here’s the truth: government alone can’t solve this. Every resident, business, and visitor have a role to play in reducing the risk of wildfires and preparing for emergencies.

Wildfires aren’t just a possibility; they’re an increasing threat. Drier conditions, high winds, and more ignition sources, from unattended campfires to equipment use, create a dangerous mix. Beyond the immediate risk to life and property, wildfires pose a serious economic threat to our community. Eagle County thrives on tourism. A major wildfire event could shut down trails, close roads, cancel vacations, and disrupt business operations for months. The environmental scars of a fire can linger for years.

Preparedness is not a luxury. It’s a necessity for protecting our homes, our economy, and our way of life. Fortunately, there are practical things all of us can do. Homeowners should start by creating defensible space around their properties—clearing brush, cleaning gutters, and using fire-resistant landscaping. Programs like Eagle County’s Wildfire Ready and Vail Fire & Emergency Services’ Fire Adapted Communities offer guidance, support, and resources.

For local businesses, wildfire preparedness needs to be part of the continuity planning process. Have a plan in place that includes employee evacuation procedures, communication strategies, and plans for potential disruptions. Local businesses are strongly encouraged to engage with local emergency management professionals to ensure they’re ready if (and when) a fire occurs.

And for individuals? Simple actions make a difference. Follow fire restrictions. Fully extinguish campfires. Postpone high-risk activities and campfires during red flag conditions. Your small act of caution could prevent a catastrophe.

We’re fortunate to live in a community that takes wildfire seriously. From the fuel reduction projects led by the Eagle Valley Wildland Fire Collaborative to emergency response coordination across jurisdictions, there’s real progress being made. But those efforts only go so far without active participation from the people who live and work here.

Wildfire mitigation is a shared responsibility. It's a team effort—and we’re all on the team. Wildfire Preparedness Month is an opportunity to assess risks and make necessary preparations. Sign up for emergency alerts, develop an evacuation plan, and get involved in mitigation efforts.

Our community’s safety depends on proactive planning. Let’s work together to protect Eagle County from the growing threat of wildfires. Visit the Eagle County, www.vail.gov/wildfireready, or your local fire district’s website for information and resources.

Eagle County is a world-class place to live, work, and play. But maintaining that status takes work. Let’s protect our natural beauty, our economy, and our neighbors by being proactive - not reactive - about wildfire risk.

This summer let’s all commit to doing our part. Our safety depends on it.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, 3-time national chamber of the year. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com