Editorial: Thanks to fire heroes

The Lockheed Fire has been another reminder of just how fragile we are when it comes to natural disasters.
In Santa Cruz County, we think of earthquakes as the central threat to our way of life. In October, we will commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Loma Prieta earthquake that shook the county to its roots.
However, the past two summers have illustrated that fire can be just as potent and just as scary as an earthquake.
In fact, the ash and smoke that blanketed Bonny Doon, the San Lorenzo Valley and Scotts Valley for the past week served as a stark reminder that fire was only miles away. Without fire crews to temper the blaze, our towns and cities could have been consumed by flames.
We salute the firefighters who have battled the blaze for days on end. And despite the immense costs associated with fighting the fire, we feel the fire protection is worth every penny.
When a Cal Fire battalion chief orders more resources to fight the fire, it is important and necessary that they arrive in a timely fashion.
We also salute the hundreds of support people who have taken part in battling the Lockheed blaze. The organization and plan set in place to feed, house and equip the firefighters, evacuees and staff was incredible.
It’s impossible to note all the groups that helped with animal rescue, keeping the roads clear and the information pipeline open, but their efforts were essential. And on behalf of those who were displaced and wound up staying with friends and neighbors in the local area, your efforts were invaluable.
After two summers of serious wildfires, it hardly needs to be said, but we urge residents to keep their properties clear.
The defensible space laws are in place for a reason, and when fire comes, defensible space can mean the difference between the charred remains of your home and a ring of charred pine trees and brush surrounding your unscathed dwelling.
Cal Fire worked magnificently to keep the Lockheed Fire clear of populated areas, but the next time, our mountains and valleys might not be so blessed.
If it takes a neighborhood getting together to clear a field, or steady work every weekend, it’s important that we band together to prepare for the next fire or earthquake.
Preparation will lead to success when the next natural disaster strikes our lovely home.