July 26, at 10 am, 3845 North Swan Street – "Firewise"
Every year, devastating wildfires burn across the United States. At the same time, a growing number of people are living where wildfires are a real risk. On Thursday, June 12, 2025, the Trout Fire was first reported in the Trout Creek area of the Gila National Forest. Started by lightning and driven by hot, dry weather, the fire quickly grew and crossed NM-15 in the afternoon. It was only 12 miles north of Silver City and grew to over 47,000 acres before being 96% contained, nearly a month later, on July 9. Due to the amazing wildfire mitigation and suppression efforts of multiple local, state, and national agencies, there was no loss of life and minimal property damage. Homeowners also played a critical role in these mitigation efforts.
While wildfires will continue to happen, there are many things property owners can do to protect their homes and neighborhoods as well as the safety of their families. This presentation will provide information and resources about the National Fire Prevention Association's (NFPA) Firewise USA ® program and how you can get involved.
The Firewise program provides a collaborative framework to help neighbors in a geographic area get organized, find direction, and take action to increase the ignition resistance of their homes and community and to reduce wildfire risks at the local level.
While the NFPA administers the Firewise program, individuals and communities participate on a voluntary basis. Becoming a Firewise Community is a wonderful opportunity to join your neighbors and work together to accomplish a shared goal of increasing community safety and your home's chance of survival during a wildfire, leading to a continued quality of life in beautiful Grant County.
Vicki Barnitt will provide a brief look at local resources, including the Grant County Community Wildfire Protection Plan. An overview of NFPA recommended property mitigation and home hardening strategies will be discussed, along with other print and web-based resources to help homeowners prepare for wildfires.
Vicki Barnitt moved from Florida to Silver City in 2017. As a retired special educator and administrator, she understands the value of collaboration and coordination to achieve important goals. Trading the threat of hurricanes for wildfires led her to get involved in the Firewise program and community advocacy efforts in Grant County. Barnitt also serves on the Board of Directors for the Grant County Community Partnership for Children and is happy to call
All ages are welcome to attend the Sunday program.
UUFSC Safety Protocol as pursuant to our most recent UUA Guidelines:
Masks are now optional, but their use is encouraged. We will continue to serve refreshments on the patio and in the building. Visitors are always welcome.
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Silver City is a diverse group of religious independents seeking knowledge, spiritual sustenance, fellowship and opportunities for service to others. Our programs encompass Humanism, liberal Christianity, earth-based spirituality, Buddhism and many other traditions. If you'd like to find out more, email
