El Monte Estates in Atascadero Earns Recognition as the City’s Newest NFPA Firewise USA® Community

Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services is pleased to announce that El Monte Estates has officially been recognized as a NFPA Firewise USA® Community, marking another important step forward in Atascadero’s wildfire preparedness and resilience efforts. El Monte is now the third neighborhood in the city to earn Firewise USA® status within the past eleven months.

El Monte Estates spans 186 acres and includes 30 homes with more than 60 residents. Over the past several months, the community worked closely with Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services to assess local wildfire hazards and implement strategies to reduce risk. Key accomplishments included:

• Establishing a resident-led Firewise board
• Conducting a comprehensive community wildfire risk assessment
• Developing a three-year mitigation and defensible space action plan

The community submitted its Firewise USA® application to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) on March 16, 2026, and soon after received its official Certificate of Recognition—reflecting the residents’ strong commitment to preparedness and collaboration.

“This recognition highlights the dedication of El Monte Estates to reducing wildfire risk through strong community collaboration,” said Battalion Chief Dave Van Son. “Their efforts demonstrate what is possible when residents take an active role in protecting their neighborhood.”

Participation in the NFPA Firewise USA® program offers several benefits, including:

• Improved wildfire safety through structured risk assessments and mitigation planning
• Access to guidance and support from local and state fire agencies
• Increased eligibility for grants and funding for vegetation management and defensible
space projects
• Stronger community engagement and shared responsibility for fire preparedness
• Potential insurance-related advantages, depending on participating carriers

Residents or neighborhoods interested in learning about the Firewise USA® program—or exploring how to begin the recognition process—are encouraged to contact Atascadero Fire & Emergency Services for guidance and support.

To learn more about the NFPA Firewise USA® program, visit the National Fire Protection Association website.