SACRAMENTO – State Assemblywoman Christy Smith, Chair of the Joint Legislative Committee on Emergency Management, facilitated an Informational Hearing on Tuesday. The hearing, titled “The 2019 Wildfire Season: Are We Prepared?,” analyzed best practices to fight fires as firestorms become the “new abnormal” year round in California.

“Californians know too well the destruction and anxiety associated with wildfires, which are becoming increasingly frequent and fierce,” Smith, D-Santa Clarita, said. “The California State Legislature will rise to the challenge as we look at what we need to do to better prepare for and prevent wildfires. This hearing is the first of many steps we will take to safeguard our communities.”

The informational hearing came at the heels of the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in the state’s history — the 2018 Camp Fire. In addition, California wildlands are now classified as under very high or extreme fire threat. Approximately 25 percent of the state’s population – 11 million people – lives in that high-risk area.

As part of the hearing, officials from local government, fire chiefs and firefighters and representatives from statewide offices testified on best firefighting practices. In order to effectively fight fire, better resources, updated technology and increased staffing are needed.

“I thank our firefighters for their service, protection of our communities and putting their lives on the line,” Assemblywoman Smith said. “I am proud to be the Chair of the Joint Legislative Committee on Emergency Management and help steer efficient and strategic firefighting legislation.”

Assemblywoman Christy Smith represents California’s 38th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Santa, Simi Valley, Agua Dulce, Castaic, Santa Susana Knolls and North San Fernando Valley.