Could Pierce County quickly evacuate during a wildfire? Some would have to escape by water

The threat of wildfires in Pierce County has raised concerns about evacuation procedures, particularly for residents of the Key Peninsula. Fire prevention specialist Anne Nesbit highlights the area's limited access points, suggesting that many may need to escape by water in a crisis. Emergency management director Amy Gillespie outlines the collaborative efforts among fire personnel, law enforcement, and emergency services to facilitate effective evacuations. The county utilizes the Pierce County ALERT system to keep residents informed and prepared through the "Ready, Set, Go! " campaign, which delineates three phases of readiness.

With the peninsula's heavily forested landscape and narrow roads, planning for a wildfire evacuation is complex and requires consideration of various factors like wind direction and available routes. The county is also finalizing a Community Wildfire Protection Plan to address specific areas with heightened risks. Nesbit and her team emphasize the necessity for residents to establish their own evacuation plans and to leave early if they feel unsafe. This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks and enhance community resilience in the face of potential wildfires.