Neighbors, the open space, piñon and juniper, and mountain views are part of what makes this corner of rural Sandoval County home. In La Madera, San Pedro Creek Estates, San Pedro Overlook, along Puertocito Road, and around the Sandia Mountains, preparing for wildfire belongs on the regular home-maintenance list.
Start with three priorities: reduce what can burn near the house, keep access clear, and have a plan to leave early.
Start at the house: the first 5 feet
Wind can carry burning embers ahead of a wildfire. Those embers can ignite needles, leaves, mulch, and other material beside a home, even when flames have not reached the property.
- Keep the first 5 feet around the house and attached structures free of combustible materials and vegetation. Use gravel, rock, or pavers, and keep them clear of debris.
- Move firewood, lumber, patio cushions, and other combustible storage away from the house and out from under decks.
- Remove leaves and needles from roofs, gutters, and deck areas. Recheck after windy weather.
- Have damaged roofing, gaps, and vulnerable vents evaluated for repairs or ember-resistant improvements.
Work outward into the yard
Beyond the immediate area, remove dead vegetation and accumulated needles, maintain grasses, and create separation between shrubs and tree branches. Low vegetation beneath a tree can carry fire upward into its canopy.
The right spacing depends on slope, vegetation, and the property. Ask for guidance before a major thinning project, and coordinate with neighbors where fuels continue across property lines. Keep all work within your property or obtain the landowner’s permission.
Help responders find and reach you
Walk your driveway with an emergency vehicle in mind. Keep it free of parked vehicles, trailers, and overhanging vegetation that could block access. Keep turnaround areas usable, and make sure your address is visible from the road, including at night.
If you have a gate, plan how responders can enter during an emergency or power outage. Contact the fire department ahead of time about access concerns, unusual hazards, or water sources available for firefighting. Share access details directly with responders.
Make the evacuation plan before you need it
Know how you would leave your property and neighborhood. Review alternative routes where they exist, and follow official directions during an incident. Choose an out-of-area contact and a meeting place.
Have a go-bag ready with medications, documents, water, chargers, and pet supplies. If you have horses or other large animals, arrange transport and a destination in advance. Plan early help for anyone who needs extra time or assistance.
Leave promptly when officials direct you to evacuate. If you feel threatened, leave early rather than waiting for an order. Do not delay departure to finish work around the house.
Sign up for local alerts
Sandoval County Alerts and Notifications (SCAN) provides emergency information by text, phone, and email. Enroll through the county’s SCAN page, or text SANDOVALNM to 888777. Make sure your household knows how it will receive updates.
Follow county emergency information and local radio as well. Keep a battery-powered radio available as part of your emergency supplies.
Check conditions before outdoor work or recreation
Before burning yard debris, using a fire pit, or heading into the mountains, check the rules for that location. County, state, tribal, and national forest restrictions can differ. Review Sandoval County’s burn-permit information and current Cibola National Forest alerts. Postpone spark-producing work when conditions are hot, dry, and windy.
Take a walk around your home this week. Clear the first 5 feet, check the driveway and address, and talk through your departure plan. Small projects across our neighborhoods add up.
To report a fire or an immediate threat to life or property, call 911.
La Madera Fire & Rescue | Sandoval County Fire & Rescue
District 4, Station 49