HERALD, CA (MPG) - The Herald Fire Prevention Council’s first Community Breakfast on Aug. 16, held at Herald Fire Station 88, was a resounding success. About 40 residents engaged in a question-and-answer session on fire prevention, insurance and the SMUD tree service.

Cars were parked three rows deep: a clear sign that Herald is ready to stand together to fight wildfires.

Wildfire specialist speakers were Steve Blaney, Sen. Roger Niello (District 6 representative) and Chief Ken Meyers. They focused on the critical need for a unified community voice to counter the realities of living in a high-designated fire zone. We must organize to fire-harden the community.

A special shout-out to Kevin Weise, volunteer master chef extraordinaire, for preparing breakfast with heartfelt passion. Thanks to the Herald Fire Department and its efficient firefighting crew for hosting and managing the logistics.

Speakers covered fire-hardening practices and the inspection process for property management. Community concerns were addressed about SMUD-contracted tree trimming, including leftover debris and guidance on contacting the Herald-area SMUD director to request improved removal practices.

Grant planning for 2026, focused on supporting seniors with fire-hardening activities, was covered at the event as well.

The Herald Fire Prevention Council held a community breakfast with about 40 residents and community leaders to learn more about fire prevention and insurance concerns in the area of Herald. Photo by LaCharles James 

Sen. Niello discussed Prop. 103 and the potential repeal efforts and future ballot initiatives addressing rising insurance costs.

Looking ahead, the Herald Fire Prevention Council is launching two key initiatives and calling for volunteers: Neighbor to Neighbor Program, fostering local support networks for fire resilience; and Online Fundraising Program, expanding our capacity to fund community-driven solutions.

The next meeting will be Saturday, Aug. 30 at 11 a.m. at the Herald Fire Station 87, 12746 Ivie Road, in the community room.  

Let’s keep the fire prevention momentum going. Together, Herald can be transformed into a fire-hardened, safe community ready for the future.

The Herald Fire Prevention Council is a young, community-driven organization with a clear purpose: build wildfire resilience in Herald through practical action, inclusive planning and shared responsibility. Tagline is, “The best way to fight fires is to prevent them.” Volunteers are actively involved in being accepted and can reach out via email at [email protected] with any questions. To learn more about Herald Fire Prevention Council, visit heraldfirecouncil.org.