Oak Ridge Estates becomes Atascadero’s first recognized Firewise USA® community

By Atascadero News · Mon May 26 2025

ATASCADERO — Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services has announced that Oak Ridge Estates has become the City’s first officially recognized NFPA Firewise USA® Community. This milestone achievement highlights the neighborhood’s commitment to wildfire safety and resilience.

Over the course of several months, residents of Oak Ridge Estates — working in collaboration with Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services, the San Luis Obispo County Fire Safe Council, and Castle Rock Development — took significant steps to establish a Firewise Community. Their efforts included forming a local board, conducting a detailed neighborhood wildfire risk assessment, and developing a comprehensive three-year action plan to reduce wildfire risk.

The community submitted its application to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) on May 19 and received official recognition just three days later on May 22 along with a Certificate of Recognition from the NFPA.

The NFPA Firewise USA® program is a national recognition initiative that empowers homeowners and communities to take proactive steps in reducing wildfire risks. Through community collaboration, education, and mitigation efforts, Firewise communities work to protect lives, property, and natural resources from wildfire threats.

Participating in the Firewise USA® program provides a wide range of benefits, including:

• Increased safety and preparedness through community-wide risk assessments and strategic mitigation planning
• Greater access to resources and support from local and state fire agencies and organizations
• Enhanced eligibility for grants and funding opportunities to support fuel reduction and defensible space projects
• Stronger community engagement and awareness, helping neighbors work together to protect their homes and landscapes
• Potential insurance advantages, as some insurers recognize Firewise status in their risk evaluations

"This recognition is a testament to the dedication of Oak Ridge Estates residents and the power of collaboration in building fire-adapted communities," said Dave Van Son, Battalion Chief . "We hope this inspires other neighborhoods in Atascadero to follow suit."

To learn more about the NFPA Firewise USA® program, visit nfpa.org/education-and-research/wildfire/firewise-usa