Plan. Prepare. Protect: A Wildfire and Emergency Readiness Panel
This panel of local emergency management professionals and landowners will discuss a range of strategies, tips, and processes for preventing and responding to wildfire and other emergencies.
THE PANELISTS:
Robert Walters, Community Wildfire Resilience Specialist for Whatcom & Skagit Conservation Districts
Presentation Overview: Every year, wildfire becomes more of a concern for those of us on the “west side,” and there are multiple reasons for this. This presentation will address these reasons. I will also be presenting a brief overview of wildfire behavior, recent local fire history, and wildfire terminology. However, the focus of the presentation will be on identifying ignition vulnerabilities on and near our homes and the mitigation actions that can be taken for these vulnerabilities. Some of the simplest actions can yield the greatest benefit.
More About Robert: Robert has been in his current position with the Whatcom Conservation District since February of 2024. He also previously worked in water quality and wildfire preparedness for the San Juan Islands Conservation District from 2014-2018. Before and between those times, he spent 25+ years in residential, commercial, and modular construction. Robert was fortunate to spend portions of his younger life in Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, Nebraska, and travel within and through many other beautiful western lands. He often found himself in awe of the beauty of natural systems and their interactions. Robert tries to be very mindful of these systems in his everyday work. Fire plays an important role in these systems but also requires that we are prepared and have plans in place for when fire crosses from the wildland into the settled land. He’s focused on combining his experience and knowledge to reach multiple, varied audiences with resources and tools that they can use to better be prepared for wildfire and ultimately protect their life, structures, and property.
Rocio Castillo-Foell, Community Affairs Manager for Puget Sound Energy
Presentation Overview: Join us for an important community presentation on how PSE is working year-round to prevent wildfires and protect the region. You’ll learn what Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) are, why they matter, and how they help keep neighborhoods safe during extreme fire weather. We’ll also share practical steps you can take to stay prepared, informed, and resilient during emergency events. Your safety starts with awareness—come gain the tools and knowledge you need to keep your family and community ready.”
More About Rocio: Rocio is a bilingual (English/Spanish) community leader with experience across healthcare, social services, and the energy sector. Her academic background includes a master’s in public health, and she is certified master health education specialist. At PSE, Rocio develops strategic partnerships with community organizations to advance clean energy initiatives and sustainable development. She leads community education efforts on emerging utility topics such as wildfire prevention, ensuring equitable service delivery across PSE territories, and serves as one of the PSE Foundation liaisons to align funding with community needs. Rocio is a wife and mother of two who enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest outdoors in her free time.
Ginny Darvill, Skagit Land Trust volunteer and local landowner
Ginny Darvill will share her experience with fire prevention strategies and tips she has implemented to protect her own home.