News coverage of the recent wildfires devastating Los Angeles suburbs has apparently raised awareness among Fountain Hills residents as well over 100 people turned out for a Firewise town hall meeting at the Community Center Feb. 24.
Chris Reed, Firewise coordinator with Arizona Department of Foresty and Fire Management, said the California fires have raised concern.
Reed noted that the number of wildfires is on the increase. In 2023 there were 1,831 fire incidents in the state burning 188,000 acres. During 2024 the number of fires increased to 2,162 burning 282,000 acres. As of last week, there were three ongoing fires within the state for 2025, according to Reed.
