Earlier this month, David Barrett, Executive Director of MySafe:LA, addressed the University of Southern California Undergraduate Student Government (USG) in a special presentation focused on the growing threat of wildfires and the critical role of individual preparedness.
The discussion centered around the recent wildfire disasters in Altadena and Pacific Palisades. Executive Director Barrett was joined by firefighters from FS 15 (the station is on USC grounds), as they were pre-deployed on the 7th of January and were one of the first “on scene” response engines. They witnessed the tragedy of the Palisades wildfire up close.
Wildfire Reality Check: A New Era of Risk
Barrett opened the session with a powerful overview of the January firestorm that ravaged parts of Los Angeles, illustrating how rapidly fire conditions have changed due to climate extremes, urban encroachment, and fuel overloads.
“This isn’t a future problem. It’s happening now,” Barrett told the students. “And while fire departments are doing heroic work, we all have a part to play—especially when protecting our homes and property.”
He emphasized the critical importance of defensible space, ember-resistant zones (Zone 0), and home hardening techniques as practical and necessary steps for anyone living in or near wildfire-prone areas.
Firefighters from LAFD Station 15 recounted their experiences during the Palisades fire, which proved to be a “losing battle” within hours of being first reported.
Student Engagement and Shared Mission
The USC undergraduates were highly engaged, asking thoughtful questions about:
- Homeowner responsibilities vs. government mandates
- Urban planning and development in high-risk areas
- How to spread wildfire safety awareness in younger communities
Several students expressed interest in developing outreach campaigns to educate their peers, particularly those whose families live in vulnerable WUI neighborhoods throughout Southern California, including Riverside and San Bernardino counties.
“Seeing students connect personal experience with civic engagement is exactly the kind of wildfire literacy we need,” Barrett said. “They’re not only the next generation of leaders but also wildfire stakeholders today.”
Why It Matters for Los Angeles County
Much of L.A. County hasn’t burned, but remains at increased risk of a similarly dangerous wildfire. Sharing experiences such as this presentation creates increased awareness, hopefully leading to a more proactive community. Barrett’s presentation demonstrated that cross-county collaboration and public awareness are essential for long-term fire adaptation.
Moving Forward
MySafe:LA is proud to work alongside schools, civic leaders, and community members to promote wildfire preparedness. This USC engagement is just one example of how we’re working to extend the wildfire safety conversation beyond first responders and into living rooms, classrooms, and boardrooms.
Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a property owner, you have a role in protecting your home, family, and community.
