Wildfire Response Plan

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This is the DPAC's Wildfire Response Plan as approved by the Bear Valley CSD Board of Directors in May 2022


The areas indicated by yellow labels are the refuge points outlined in the Wildfire Response Plan


The Zones - please disregard the green X marks






Wildfire Response Plan

Disaster Preparedness Advisory Committee (DPAC)
Bear Valley Springs, CA

Disaster Preparedness Plan


INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the Disaster Preparedness Plan is to provide residents with a road map of how to
navigate a disaster with information, resources, and links to internal and external documents to
educate residents. In addition, it outlines necessary steps to work with District services to improve
the chances of a successful outcome. By following the information provided in this Disaster
Preparedness Plan, residents will gain knowledge and be better prepared to face potential
emergency situations.


Bear Valley Springs is a rural community with diverse geography and demographics, with over 100
miles of paved roads, 3,500 buildable lots and over 5,000 residents spread out over 41 square
miles. Among its many appealing characteristics are low population density, open areas,
mountains, forests, meadows and diverse wildlife, most of which are not present in urban
population areas. The ability to enjoy these characteristics requires residents to forgo many ways
of life associated with urban living and be more self-sufficient to handle emergency scenarios.


BVS is fortunate to have its own police department and fire station located within the Valley.
However, due to the physical size of the valley and how the population is dispersed, response
times can be significantly longer than in urban areas. Ambulance response times can be even
greater due to their home base location outside of the Valley.


Rural living requires every resident to take on a high level of personal responsibility for their own
safety and well-being. A wildfire can cause an immediate impact to the quality of life. A significant
sized earthquake could devastate BVS infrastructure and could significantly impact public services
for a very long time. Being educated and prepared helps to ensure all residents can minimize the
impact of both man-made and natural disasters. With education and preparedness, BVS residents
can work with the district services to successfully deal with any significant event we may
encounter.


For more details regarding the actions of Bear Valley Springs disaster resources and actions, please
review the Emergency Operations Plan (EOC). The EOC can be accessed at

https://www.bvcsd.com/documents under the Emergency Preparedness tab. For equestrian
residents with horses or other large animals, please refer to the “Wildfire - Animal Evacuation”
accessed at
https://www.bvcsd.com/documents under the Emergency Preparedness tab. In
addition, the BEAR VALLEY SPRINGS EQUINE EMERGENCY PLAN can be located at

https://bvsa.webflow.io/documents-library, click on Equestrian Center Equine Emergency Plan and
Sign Up Form.


Acronyms used within this document: BVS (Bear Valley Springs); BVCSD or CSD (Bear Valley
Community Services District; BVPD (Bear Valley Police Department).



Section 1 - Pre-Disaster Preparation


Introduction:

Disasters, natural and man-made, can strike at any time. Preparation to mitigate the negative
impacts of a disaster needs to occur prior to a disaster event. There are many actions residents
can take to minimize or eliminate the negative effects of disasters to life and property.

Action Steps – Pre-Disaster:

  1. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure coverage is sufficient and
    appropriate to provide protection in case of damage or destruction.
  2. Review all available disaster preparedness documentation available at
    https://www.bvcsd.com/documents
    Emergency Preparedness tab.
  3. Complete actions necessary to harden property and residences against potential
    emergencies.
  4. Prepare personal evacuation plans and supplies.
  5. Become acquainted with all routes away from your residence to Refuge Points and/or
    Valley evacuation
  6. Sign up for Smart911.com a service to improve 911 information and response.

Responsibilities – Pre Disaster:

  • Every resident is responsible for reviewing pertinent disaster preparedness documentation.
  • Every resident is responsible for ensuring their property and residence is hardened against
    negative disaster impacts. (for example: clearing brush away from structure, deadfall, etc.)
  • Every resident should annually review disaster preparedness documentation and adjust
    their preparations accordingly, and discuss those plans with family members
  • The BVCSD is responsible for ensuring all available disaster preparedness documentation is
    current and accessible.


Supporting Documentation

All related documents are located at https://www.bvcsd.com/documents, under Emergency
Preparedness:

  1. BVCSD Emergency Supplies Checklist
  2. BVCSD Preparing for a Power Outage
  3. Emergency Planning Checklist
  4. FEMA: Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt
  5. Large Animal Emergency Checklist
  6. Wildfire - Evacuation Guidelines
  7. Wildfire - Animal Evacuation
  8. Wildfire - CalFire Defensible Space
  9. Wildfire - How to Make Your Home Fire Safe
  10. Wildfire - Ready, Set, Go! Your Personal Action Plan
  11. Wildfire - What to Do Before, During, and After
  12. Wildfire - Yard Maintenance Safety
  13. Wildfire Preparedness - Seasonal actions to reduce your risk and promote tree health


Section 2 - Notification


Introduction:

A timely and robust system to notify BVS residents of an existing or impending disaster and a
process for initial and ongoing sources of up-to-date information is essential for the safety and
the well-being of residents and visitors.


The Disaster Notification System shall be used in emergency situations to notify residents in the
community of Bear Valley Springs. Acceptable uses for emergency notification include, but are not
limited to:

  • Public Safety Directed Evacuations due to events such as wildfire, earthquake, flooding and
    landslides
  • Extreme weather events
  • Search & Rescue (missing person, Amber Alert, escaped fugitive)
  • Man-Made Disaster (bomb threat, act or threat of terrorism, chemical spill, gas leak,
    Hazardous Material (HazMat) emergencies)
  • Public Health-Related notifications (drinking water contamination, boil water advisory)

Action Steps - Notification:

  1. An Emergency Notification System activation is requested by either internal or external
    sources.
    1. Internal sources include, but are not limited to, Valley residents, BVCSD, BVSA or
      BVPD staff.
    2. External Sources include but are not limited to the Kern Office of Emergency
      Services, Kern County Fire Department, and other local, state and federal
      organizations and/or emergency services.
  2. Either the Chief of Police or District Communications Specialist prepares the notification
    message to include:
    1. Information about the nature of the incident.
    2. Actions expected of residents to limit property damage, injury and loss of life. For
      example:
      1. Prepare for possible evacuation.
      2. Evacuation to Refuge Points.
      3. Evacuation to outside the Valley via emergency route.
  3. Either the Chief of Police or District Communications Specialist distributes the notification
    via the District's Emergency Alerts platform
    1. The message can be designated to be distributed in multiple ways.
      1. Valley wide for incidents immediately affecting the entirety of BVS.
      2. To single or multiple BVS zones for incidents immediately affecting one or
        more focused areas of the Valley.
  4. The District Communications Specialist posts the emergency notification and subsequent
    information on multiple social media sites including but not limited to; Facebook,
    NextDoor, and The Bear Valley Exchange.
  5. Residents may also find information about the emergency on the Kern County PulsePoint
    and ReadyKern phone and computer apps.
  6. Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles and other residents relocating to Refuge Points or
    evacuating the valley. If your area of the Valley has not been notified to evacuate or to
    prepare for evacuation, stand by and await instructions.

Responsibilities - Notification:

Every resident has the responsibility to ensure they are capable of receiving emergency
notifications and be prepared to respond when a notification is distributed. It is critical for
every resident to register as a user with NIXLE by texting the keyword BVSAlerts to 888777.

  • The Chief of the BVPD and the District Communications Specialist are the coordinators
    responsible for activating the notification system and posting official information on Valley
    social media accounts.
  • The Kern County Fire Department is responsible for calling for an evacuation. The BVPD is
    responsible for implementing the process.

Supporting Documentation

BVS Emergency Notification System Policy

Kern County Emergency Preparations - https://kerncountyfire.org/education-
safety/preparedness/



Section 3 - Resident Relocation /Zones


Introduction

Bear Valley Springs is over 41 square miles in area, has over 100 miles of asphalt roads, 3,500
buildable lots and over 5,000 residents. The geography varies significantly from tree-covered
mountains to treeless grasslands.

In the event of a natural or man-made disaster, it may be necessary for some residents to
evacuate their residences. However, given the geographic diversity of BVS, it may be unnecessary
and ill-advised to attempt an immediate evacuation of all residents to outside the Valley.

Within the Valley are numerous safe and relatively safe Refuge Points available to protect
residents until evacuation recommendations are lifted and people can return to their homes or to
provide BVCSD staff time to initiate and complete a safe and orderly evacuation to the outside of the
Valley.

A Refuge Point is a place that will not burn, meaning it’s free of flammable material such as tall
dried grass, trees and shrubs. The bigger the area and the less vegetation, the better. Issues such
as wind-driven embers and radiated heat can be mitigated by the presence of non-flammable
structures like a concrete wall or as a last resort, seeking protection inside a vehicle. Sheltering in a
vehicle during a fire is dangerous and frightening, but it's still safer than being outside. Park your
car away from flammable materials, get low to the floor, and cover up any exposed skin.

Action Steps - Relocation:

  1. Residents are notified of an event (See Section 2 – Notification) and advised to prepare to
    evacuate or to evacuate. The number of residents notified may be a subset of the Valley
    due to localization of the emergency.

  2. Prepare your residence for evacuation. A list of actions is included in the document
    “Wildfire – Ready, Set, Go! Your Personal Action Plan”. Located on line at

    https://www.bvcsd.com/documents
    . Section titled Get Set – As the Fire Approaches.
  3. Evacuate your residence by taking your pre-prepared go-bag and other essential items,
    family members and pets. (See section 1 – Pre-Disaster Preparation)
  4. Relocate to a Refuge Point away from the emergency event and with the shortest travel
    time.
  5. Await further instruction from BVCSD and/or BVPD staff
  6. Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles and other residents relocating to Refuge Points or
    evacuating the Valley. Remain in place if your Zone has not been notified to evacuate.


Refuge Points

  • Clubhouse Parking Lots

    • Located on Lower Valley Road near Rolling Oak Drive

    • Parking space on upper-level asphalt lot for approximately 70 vehicles

    • Parking space on upper-level asphalt lot for approximately 160 vehicles

  • Mulligan Room, Golf Pro Shop and BVSA Administration Office

    • Located on Rolling Oak Drive

    • Parking space on asphalt lot for approximately 40 vehicles

  • Golf Driving Range

    • Located on Lower Valley Road and Rolling Oak Drive

    • Parking space on mowed and compacted dirt for approximately 10 vehicles

    • Parking space on mowed dirt on the driving range field for approximately 200
      vehicles

  • Ken Beaubien Athletic Field and immediately surrounding areas

    • Located at the intersection of Bear Valley Road and Lower Valley Road

    • Parking space on compacted dirt for approximately 50 vehicles.

    • Parking space on moved dirt and grass adjacent to the parking lot for
      approximately 150 vehicles.

  • Cub Lake

    • Located on Bear Valley Road between Lower Valley Road and Cumberland Road

    • Parking space on asphalt for approximately 35 vehicles.

    • Parking space on mowed and compacted dirt for approximately 150 vehicles.

  • RC (Radio Control) Ron Samuels Model Field

    • Located next to Jack’s Hole, accessed by dirt road from the Transfer Station.

    • Parking space on compacted dirt for approximately 30 vehicles

  • Transfer Station and BVCSD Offices

    • Located on Lower Valley Road at the intersection of Lower Valley Road, Bear Valley
      Road and Cumberland Road.

    • Parking space on asphalt for approximately 50 vehicles.

    • Parking space on mowed and compacted dirt for approximately 50 vehicles.

  • Four Island Lake Parking and Picnic area

    • Located on Lower Valley Road at the intersection of Lower Valley Road, Bear Valley
      Road and Cumberland Road

    • Parking space on asphalt for approximately 60 vehicles.

  • BVS Market and Whiting Center

    • Located on Bear Valley Road and Jacaranda Drive

    • Parking space on asphalt lot for approximately 60 vehicles.

  • The Equestrian Center

    • Located on Bear Valley Road between Rowel Court and Serra Place.

    • Parking space on asphalt for approximately 50 vehicles.

    • Parking space on mowed and compacted dirt for approximately 150 vehicles.

Responsibilities - Relocation:

  • Every resident has the responsibility to review documents and be prepared for relocation
    including identifying the best Refuge Point under various disaster events

  • BVCSD and BVPD staff are responsible for assisting residents in reaching a refuge point and
    keeping them informed of further actions such as returning to the residence or evacuation
    outside of the Valley.

  • The Kern County Fire Department is responsible for calling for an evacuation. The BVPD is
    responsible for implementing the process.

Supporting Documentation

BVCSD Web site, https://www.bvcsd.com/documents, under the Emergency Preparedness tab,
has multiple documents referencing wildfire and disaster preparedness and response including:

How To Survive: 5 Tips for Hikers Caught In A Wildfire

  • This on-line document provides good information related to Refuge Points and how to
    protect yourself from wildfires in the near area and explains how Refuge Points are viable.



Section 4 - Resident Evacuation


Introduction:

In the event of a natural or man-made disaster, it may be necessary for some residents to
evacuate their residences. In some instances, it may be necessary for residents to not only
evacuate their residence but to also evacuate the Valley.

Resident evacuation of the Valley may be required due to:

  • Immediate threat to life or serious injury with no viable access to refuge points (Urgent)
  • Immediate need for medical attention (Urgent)
  • Intermediate and/or long-term need for alternate housing (Not urgent)
    • Primary residence not accessible due to the disaster
    • Primary residence in need of rehabilitation due to the disaster
    • Primary residence destroyed

Bear Valley Springs has only one approved and viable egress route out of the Valley. The egress
route is east via Bear Valley Road, through the main gate to Cummings Valley Road to Highway 202
to Tehachapi.

Evacuation of the Valley should not occur unless it is urgently required as defined above or if
current conditions on the egress route would cause the potential for danger of loss of life or injury.

Unnecessary evacuation via Bear Valley Road when not urgent will potentially result in:

  • Limiting access to the Valley of emergency response vehicles.
  • Blockage of the egress route due to excessive traffic, collisions or stalled vehicles.
    • Resulting in inability to evacuate seriously injured residents.
    • Resulting in the potential for residents to be trapped in their vehicles and unable to
      get out of harm’s way.

Action Steps - Evacuation:

  1. Residents are notified of an event (See Section 2 – Notification) and advised to prepare to
    evacuate or to evacuate. The number of residents notified may be a subset of the Valley
    due to localization of the emergency.

  2. Prepare your residence for evacuation. A list of actions is included in the document
    “Wildfire – Ready, Set, Go! Your Personal Action Plan”. Located on-line at

    https://www.bvcsd.com/documents
    . Section titled Get Set – As the Fire Approaches.
  3. When instructed, evacuate your residence by taking your pre-prepared go bag, other
    essential items, family members and pets. (See Section 1 – Pre-Disaster Preparation)

IF EVACUATION FROM THE VALLEY IS NOT URGENT

  1. Relocate to a Refuge Point away from the emergency event and with the shortest travel
    time

  2. Await further instruction from BVCSD and/or BVPD staff
  3. When urgent evacuation processes have been completed, evacuate the Valley via Bear
    Valley Road
  4. Keep roads clear for emergency equipment and other residents relocating to Refuge
    Points. Remain in place if your Zone has not been notified to evacuate.

IF URGENT EVACUATION FROM THE VALLEY HAS BEEN ORDERED

Evacuate from the Valley via Bear Valley Road and the main gate or via other official guided egress.

Responsibilities - Evacuation:

  • Every resident has the responsibility to review documents and be prepared for evacuation
    including identifying alternate routes to Bear Valley Road and the best Refuge Point under
    various disaster events.
  • BVCSD and BVPD staff are responsible for assisting residents in evacuating the Valley.
  • The Kern County Fire Department is responsible for calling for an evacuation. The BVPD is
    responsible for implementing the process.

Supporting Documentation

BVCSD Web site, https://www.bvcsd.com/documents, under the Emergency Preparedness tab,
has multiple documents referencing wildfire and disaster preparedness and response including:



Section 5 - Post Disaster


Introduction:

Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and
physical well-being. The steps provided below give an overview of actions and issues residents
should consider. A detailed description of the steps can be found at

https://www.ready.gov/recovering-disaster

Action Steps – Post Disaster:

  1. Evaluate the status of personal and family health, safety and well-being.

  2. Only return to your residence when advised it is safe to do so.

  3. Be aware of safety issues created in a disaster including: washed out roads, contaminated
    buildings, contaminated water, gas leaks, broken glass, damaged electrical wiring and
    slippery floors.

  4. Inform local authorities about health and safety issues, including chemical spills, downed
    power lines, washed out roads, smoldering insulation and dead animals

  5. Document all damage via photos, notes, and videos.

  6. Save all receipts for post damage repair and clean-up.

Responsibilities – Post Disaster:

  • Every resident has the responsibility to review documents and be prepared for the actions
    required following a disaster to assist with recovery processes.
  • BVCSD and BVPD staff are responsible for assisting residents in returning to their
    residences following a disaster and advising residents of local, state and federal recovery
    assistance.

Supporting Documentation

BVCSD Web site, https://www.bvcsd.com/documents, under the Emergency Preparedness tab,
has multiple documents referencing wildfire and disaster preparedness and response including:



DPAC Recommendation #1


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Section #2 - Notification

Recommend identifying and assigning appropriate staff and resources to work with all
cellular and hard-wired communications entities serving the Valley to ensure their
systems are sustainable in the event of an environmental emergency.


Actions to include but not limited to:

  • Ensuring the existence of a robust source of back-up power
  • The removal and trimming of all low brush and limbs located close enough to impact
    continuity of service.

Recommendation Background


Disaster notification is broken down to two distinct segments.

  1. Notifying residents that a real or potential disaster event exists
  2. Providing initial and continuous information stream of what is occurring and what
    residents should be doing to mitigate the impact on life and property.


Failure of any or all sources of digital and hard-wired media data sources would leave large
portions of the Valley unaware of the existence of a disaster event.


The current notification system relies primarily on Nixle, social media and via in-person
door to door.

  • Nixle and social media limitations include:
    • Residents must register to receive Nixle notifications. A majority of
      residences have yet to register.
    • Heavy reliance on mobile phone voice and data technology.
      • Cell towers could become inoperative due to loss of power
      • Loss of data connection
      • Physical damage to cell phone towers.
    • Many residents no longer have hard wired phones.
    • Mobile phone coverage not available in all areas.
    • Hard wired internet access could be disrupted or damaged.
  • In-person door to door notification limitations include:
    • Significant staff and volunteer requirements
    • Slow process, leaving large portions of the Valley uninformed.



DPAC Recommendation #2


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Section #2 - Notification

Recommend the purchase and installation of a siren-based disaster notification system

Actions to include but not limited to:

  • That BVCSD authorize the purchase of no less than seven [7] civil defense / safety
    alert sirens for emplacement upon the Association's tallest water towers for initial
    community alert in the event of natural Emergency (fire/ high winds / flooding /
    earthquakes). Sites co-located with existing backup power and data access.
  • That these civil defense / emergency alert sirens be electronically controlled by specific
    BVCSD personnel at the CSD offices and are solely for the use in the event of a
    natural Emergency.
  • Develop policies regarding siren use. Including:
    • Valley wide? Vs. targeting?
    • Length of siren activation
    • What residents are supposed to do when they hear a siren
    • System testing protocols

Recommendation Background

Disaster notification is broken down to two distinct segments.

  1. Notifying residents that a real or potential disaster event exists
  2. Providing initial and continuous information stream of what is occurring and what
    residents should be doing to mitigate the impact on life and property.


The utilization of a siren system would immediately ensure all Valley residents would be aware
that a disaster event exists. They would then utilize existing and recommended communication
systems for further information.


Failure of any or all sources of digital and hard-wired media data sources would leave large
portions of the Valley unaware of the existence of a disaster event.


The current notification system relies primarily on Nixle, social media and via in-person
door to door.

Nixle and social media limitations include:

  • Residents must register to receive Nixle notifications. A majority of
    residences have yet to register.
  • Heavy reliance on mobile phone voice and data technology.
    • Cell towers could become inoperative due to loss of power
    • Loss of data connection
    • Physical damage to cell phone towers.
    • Many residents no longer have hard wired phones.
    • Mobile phones can be silenced or turned off.
    • Mobile phone coverage not available in all areas.
    • Hard wired internet access could be disrupted or damaged.
  • In-person door to door notification limitations include:
    • Significant staff and volunteer requirements
    • Slow process, leaving large portions of the Valley uninformed



DPAC Recommendation #3


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Section #2 - Notification

Recommend the creation of a redundant system for residents to receive initial and ongoing
disaster information. To be accomplished by the purchase of portable SIMPLEX message
radio receivers. And, organize existing Valley amateur radio operators to distribute
notifications.


Recommendation Background


Disaster notification is broken down to two distinct segments.

  1. Notifying residents that a real or potential disaster event exists
  2. Providing initial and continuous information stream of what is occurring and what
    residents should be doing to mitigate the impact on life and property.


Existing disaster information services have many limitations as described in recommendations
#1 and #2. A redundant system is necessary to ensure all residents are kept informed as to the
status of a disaster and to receive instructions to protect their lives and property. The
portability of the receivers would allow residents to continue to receive important information
regardless of their location.


The described portable radios are relatively inexpensive (price currently being researched by a
DPAC member). The receivers would be preprogrammed to the appropriate frequency for
simple use by residents. They could be made available to all BVS residents utilizing District
funds, or be made available for purchase from the BVCSD.



DPAC Recommendation #4


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Sections #3 - Resident Relocation and #4 – Resident
Evacuation

Recommend the purchase and installation of “Not a through Street,” “Dead End,” or “No
Exit” signs at the intersections of all BVS streets without an alternative exit.

Recommendation Background

In the event of a disaster situation residents evacuating their home are under a high level of
stress. Even familiar roads and egress routes can become disorienting in stressful and low
visibility situations. Many roads in the Valley with no alternate exits have no signage indicating
there is no exit. With no exit, people can get trapped.

Many fatalities and injuries in wildfires have occurred by evacuating residents who became
disoriented and trapped in deadly situations. Appropriate signage could mitigate this situation
and improve the flow of traffic to Valley Refuge Points and/or evacuation to outside the Valley.



DPAC Recommendation #5 - Closed


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Sections #3 - Resident Relocation

Recommend performing necessary infrastructure changes to increase the number of
available Refuge Points

Conclusions:

There is no additional BVCSD-owned land on the Valley floor that would be appropriate for additional Refuge Points



DPAC Recommendation #6


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Sections #4 - Resident Evacuation


Recommend creating alternate egress routes on the west end of the Valley

  • For the west end of Deertrail
  • For the southwest corner of the Valley

Recommendation Background

At present, there is only one approved egress route out of the Valley - east via Bear Valley
Road.

Alternate egress routes should be identified. Bear Valley Springs is entirely surrounded by
private property requiring agreements with private property owners to allow Valley residents
to have access to cross their property in the event of a disaster.

The highest urgency is an alternate egress route out of the west side of the Valley. Due to high
and rugged terrain, the potential exists for residents in the upper Deertrail area to be cut off
from access to refuge points on the Valley floor and/or evacuation via Bear Valley Road.
Currently, Deertrail extends to the north/west Valley border at the shooting range. The road
then extends beyond that point past a locked gate through the Tejon Ranch to the San Juaquin
Valley floor.

A potential egress route for the west end of the Valley to the San Juaquin Valley exists at the
end of Sheeptrail Court and Woodbine Court. At the cul-de-sac of both streets are locked gates
allowing entry into Black Oaks Ranch and an improved dirt roads through the Ranch to the San
Juaquin Valley floor.

A potential egress route to Cummings Valley exists from the west end of Skyline Drive. Located
at the west end of Skyline Drive, prior to the turn down to Lower Valley Road is a dirt road
heading south. At the entrance to the route at Skyline Drive is a sign stating “No Trespassing
Emergency Access Route Unauthorized users prohibited.” There are two residences past the
sign on a paved section of the road before reaching the first gate. A dirt road extends beyond
the first gate to a second gate. This road is currently only one lane and not appropriate for
most types of private vehicles. After the second gate is Hidden Oaks Ranch and a well-
maintained two-lane dirt road that passes through Hidden Oaks Ranch to Sasia Road in
Cummings Valley (approximately 2.75 miles). The road is financially maintained by the
residents of the Ranch. The BVCSD has a 30 feet easement on the road from Skyline Drive to
the second gate and the start of Hidden Oaks Ranch. Grading between the 1
st and 2nd gates is
required to make this route usable for 2wd vehicles.

This is the DPAC's Wildfire Response Plan as approved by the Bear Valley CSD Board of Directors in May 2022


The areas indicated by yellow labels are the refuge points outlined in the Wildfire Response Plan


The Zones - please disregard the green X marks






Wildfire Response Plan

Disaster Preparedness Advisory Committee (DPAC)
Bear Valley Springs, CA

Disaster Preparedness Plan


INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the Disaster Preparedness Plan is to provide residents with a road map of how to
navigate a disaster with information, resources, and links to internal and external documents to
educate residents. In addition, it outlines necessary steps to work with District services to improve
the chances of a successful outcome. By following the information provided in this Disaster
Preparedness Plan, residents will gain knowledge and be better prepared to face potential
emergency situations.


Bear Valley Springs is a rural community with diverse geography and demographics, with over 100
miles of paved roads, 3,500 buildable lots and over 5,000 residents spread out over 41 square
miles. Among its many appealing characteristics are low population density, open areas,
mountains, forests, meadows and diverse wildlife, most of which are not present in urban
population areas. The ability to enjoy these characteristics requires residents to forgo many ways
of life associated with urban living and be more self-sufficient to handle emergency scenarios.


BVS is fortunate to have its own police department and fire station located within the Valley.
However, due to the physical size of the valley and how the population is dispersed, response
times can be significantly longer than in urban areas. Ambulance response times can be even
greater due to their home base location outside of the Valley.


Rural living requires every resident to take on a high level of personal responsibility for their own
safety and well-being. A wildfire can cause an immediate impact to the quality of life. A significant
sized earthquake could devastate BVS infrastructure and could significantly impact public services
for a very long time. Being educated and prepared helps to ensure all residents can minimize the
impact of both man-made and natural disasters. With education and preparedness, BVS residents
can work with the district services to successfully deal with any significant event we may
encounter.


For more details regarding the actions of Bear Valley Springs disaster resources and actions, please
review the Emergency Operations Plan (EOC). The EOC can be accessed at

https://www.bvcsd.com/documents under the Emergency Preparedness tab. For equestrian
residents with horses or other large animals, please refer to the “Wildfire - Animal Evacuation”
accessed at
https://www.bvcsd.com/documents under the Emergency Preparedness tab. In
addition, the BEAR VALLEY SPRINGS EQUINE EMERGENCY PLAN can be located at

https://bvsa.webflow.io/documents-library, click on Equestrian Center Equine Emergency Plan and
Sign Up Form.


Acronyms used within this document: BVS (Bear Valley Springs); BVCSD or CSD (Bear Valley
Community Services District; BVPD (Bear Valley Police Department).



Section 1 - Pre-Disaster Preparation


Introduction:

Disasters, natural and man-made, can strike at any time. Preparation to mitigate the negative
impacts of a disaster needs to occur prior to a disaster event. There are many actions residents
can take to minimize or eliminate the negative effects of disasters to life and property.

Action Steps – Pre-Disaster:

  1. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure coverage is sufficient and
    appropriate to provide protection in case of damage or destruction.
  2. Review all available disaster preparedness documentation available at
    https://www.bvcsd.com/documents
    Emergency Preparedness tab.
  3. Complete actions necessary to harden property and residences against potential
    emergencies.
  4. Prepare personal evacuation plans and supplies.
  5. Become acquainted with all routes away from your residence to Refuge Points and/or
    Valley evacuation
  6. Sign up for Smart911.com a service to improve 911 information and response.

Responsibilities – Pre Disaster:

  • Every resident is responsible for reviewing pertinent disaster preparedness documentation.
  • Every resident is responsible for ensuring their property and residence is hardened against
    negative disaster impacts. (for example: clearing brush away from structure, deadfall, etc.)
  • Every resident should annually review disaster preparedness documentation and adjust
    their preparations accordingly, and discuss those plans with family members
  • The BVCSD is responsible for ensuring all available disaster preparedness documentation is
    current and accessible.


Supporting Documentation

All related documents are located at https://www.bvcsd.com/documents, under Emergency
Preparedness:

  1. BVCSD Emergency Supplies Checklist
  2. BVCSD Preparing for a Power Outage
  3. Emergency Planning Checklist
  4. FEMA: Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt
  5. Large Animal Emergency Checklist
  6. Wildfire - Evacuation Guidelines
  7. Wildfire - Animal Evacuation
  8. Wildfire - CalFire Defensible Space
  9. Wildfire - How to Make Your Home Fire Safe
  10. Wildfire - Ready, Set, Go! Your Personal Action Plan
  11. Wildfire - What to Do Before, During, and After
  12. Wildfire - Yard Maintenance Safety
  13. Wildfire Preparedness - Seasonal actions to reduce your risk and promote tree health


Section 2 - Notification


Introduction:

A timely and robust system to notify BVS residents of an existing or impending disaster and a
process for initial and ongoing sources of up-to-date information is essential for the safety and
the well-being of residents and visitors.


The Disaster Notification System shall be used in emergency situations to notify residents in the
community of Bear Valley Springs. Acceptable uses for emergency notification include, but are not
limited to:

  • Public Safety Directed Evacuations due to events such as wildfire, earthquake, flooding and
    landslides
  • Extreme weather events
  • Search & Rescue (missing person, Amber Alert, escaped fugitive)
  • Man-Made Disaster (bomb threat, act or threat of terrorism, chemical spill, gas leak,
    Hazardous Material (HazMat) emergencies)
  • Public Health-Related notifications (drinking water contamination, boil water advisory)

Action Steps - Notification:

  1. An Emergency Notification System activation is requested by either internal or external
    sources.
    1. Internal sources include, but are not limited to, Valley residents, BVCSD, BVSA or
      BVPD staff.
    2. External Sources include but are not limited to the Kern Office of Emergency
      Services, Kern County Fire Department, and other local, state and federal
      organizations and/or emergency services.
  2. Either the Chief of Police or District Communications Specialist prepares the notification
    message to include:
    1. Information about the nature of the incident.
    2. Actions expected of residents to limit property damage, injury and loss of life. For
      example:
      1. Prepare for possible evacuation.
      2. Evacuation to Refuge Points.
      3. Evacuation to outside the Valley via emergency route.
  3. Either the Chief of Police or District Communications Specialist distributes the notification
    via the District's Emergency Alerts platform
    1. The message can be designated to be distributed in multiple ways.
      1. Valley wide for incidents immediately affecting the entirety of BVS.
      2. To single or multiple BVS zones for incidents immediately affecting one or
        more focused areas of the Valley.
  4. The District Communications Specialist posts the emergency notification and subsequent
    information on multiple social media sites including but not limited to; Facebook,
    NextDoor, and The Bear Valley Exchange.
  5. Residents may also find information about the emergency on the Kern County PulsePoint
    and ReadyKern phone and computer apps.
  6. Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles and other residents relocating to Refuge Points or
    evacuating the valley. If your area of the Valley has not been notified to evacuate or to
    prepare for evacuation, stand by and await instructions.

Responsibilities - Notification:

Every resident has the responsibility to ensure they are capable of receiving emergency
notifications and be prepared to respond when a notification is distributed. It is critical for
every resident to register as a user with NIXLE by texting the keyword BVSAlerts to 888777.

  • The Chief of the BVPD and the District Communications Specialist are the coordinators
    responsible for activating the notification system and posting official information on Valley
    social media accounts.
  • The Kern County Fire Department is responsible for calling for an evacuation. The BVPD is
    responsible for implementing the process.

Supporting Documentation

BVS Emergency Notification System Policy

Kern County Emergency Preparations - https://kerncountyfire.org/education-
safety/preparedness/



Section 3 - Resident Relocation /Zones


Introduction

Bear Valley Springs is over 41 square miles in area, has over 100 miles of asphalt roads, 3,500
buildable lots and over 5,000 residents. The geography varies significantly from tree-covered
mountains to treeless grasslands.

In the event of a natural or man-made disaster, it may be necessary for some residents to
evacuate their residences. However, given the geographic diversity of BVS, it may be unnecessary
and ill-advised to attempt an immediate evacuation of all residents to outside the Valley.

Within the Valley are numerous safe and relatively safe Refuge Points available to protect
residents until evacuation recommendations are lifted and people can return to their homes or to
provide BVCSD staff time to initiate and complete a safe and orderly evacuation to the outside of the
Valley.

A Refuge Point is a place that will not burn, meaning it’s free of flammable material such as tall
dried grass, trees and shrubs. The bigger the area and the less vegetation, the better. Issues such
as wind-driven embers and radiated heat can be mitigated by the presence of non-flammable
structures like a concrete wall or as a last resort, seeking protection inside a vehicle. Sheltering in a
vehicle during a fire is dangerous and frightening, but it's still safer than being outside. Park your
car away from flammable materials, get low to the floor, and cover up any exposed skin.

Action Steps - Relocation:

  1. Residents are notified of an event (See Section 2 – Notification) and advised to prepare to
    evacuate or to evacuate. The number of residents notified may be a subset of the Valley
    due to localization of the emergency.

  2. Prepare your residence for evacuation. A list of actions is included in the document
    “Wildfire – Ready, Set, Go! Your Personal Action Plan”. Located on line at

    https://www.bvcsd.com/documents
    . Section titled Get Set – As the Fire Approaches.
  3. Evacuate your residence by taking your pre-prepared go-bag and other essential items,
    family members and pets. (See section 1 – Pre-Disaster Preparation)
  4. Relocate to a Refuge Point away from the emergency event and with the shortest travel
    time.
  5. Await further instruction from BVCSD and/or BVPD staff
  6. Keep roads clear for emergency vehicles and other residents relocating to Refuge Points or
    evacuating the Valley. Remain in place if your Zone has not been notified to evacuate.


Refuge Points

  • Clubhouse Parking Lots

    • Located on Lower Valley Road near Rolling Oak Drive

    • Parking space on upper-level asphalt lot for approximately 70 vehicles

    • Parking space on upper-level asphalt lot for approximately 160 vehicles

  • Mulligan Room, Golf Pro Shop and BVSA Administration Office

    • Located on Rolling Oak Drive

    • Parking space on asphalt lot for approximately 40 vehicles

  • Golf Driving Range

    • Located on Lower Valley Road and Rolling Oak Drive

    • Parking space on mowed and compacted dirt for approximately 10 vehicles

    • Parking space on mowed dirt on the driving range field for approximately 200
      vehicles

  • Ken Beaubien Athletic Field and immediately surrounding areas

    • Located at the intersection of Bear Valley Road and Lower Valley Road

    • Parking space on compacted dirt for approximately 50 vehicles.

    • Parking space on moved dirt and grass adjacent to the parking lot for
      approximately 150 vehicles.

  • Cub Lake

    • Located on Bear Valley Road between Lower Valley Road and Cumberland Road

    • Parking space on asphalt for approximately 35 vehicles.

    • Parking space on mowed and compacted dirt for approximately 150 vehicles.

  • RC (Radio Control) Ron Samuels Model Field

    • Located next to Jack’s Hole, accessed by dirt road from the Transfer Station.

    • Parking space on compacted dirt for approximately 30 vehicles

  • Transfer Station and BVCSD Offices

    • Located on Lower Valley Road at the intersection of Lower Valley Road, Bear Valley
      Road and Cumberland Road.

    • Parking space on asphalt for approximately 50 vehicles.

    • Parking space on mowed and compacted dirt for approximately 50 vehicles.

  • Four Island Lake Parking and Picnic area

    • Located on Lower Valley Road at the intersection of Lower Valley Road, Bear Valley
      Road and Cumberland Road

    • Parking space on asphalt for approximately 60 vehicles.

  • BVS Market and Whiting Center

    • Located on Bear Valley Road and Jacaranda Drive

    • Parking space on asphalt lot for approximately 60 vehicles.

  • The Equestrian Center

    • Located on Bear Valley Road between Rowel Court and Serra Place.

    • Parking space on asphalt for approximately 50 vehicles.

    • Parking space on mowed and compacted dirt for approximately 150 vehicles.

Responsibilities - Relocation:

  • Every resident has the responsibility to review documents and be prepared for relocation
    including identifying the best Refuge Point under various disaster events

  • BVCSD and BVPD staff are responsible for assisting residents in reaching a refuge point and
    keeping them informed of further actions such as returning to the residence or evacuation
    outside of the Valley.

  • The Kern County Fire Department is responsible for calling for an evacuation. The BVPD is
    responsible for implementing the process.

Supporting Documentation

BVCSD Web site, https://www.bvcsd.com/documents, under the Emergency Preparedness tab,
has multiple documents referencing wildfire and disaster preparedness and response including:

How To Survive: 5 Tips for Hikers Caught In A Wildfire

  • This on-line document provides good information related to Refuge Points and how to
    protect yourself from wildfires in the near area and explains how Refuge Points are viable.



Section 4 - Resident Evacuation


Introduction:

In the event of a natural or man-made disaster, it may be necessary for some residents to
evacuate their residences. In some instances, it may be necessary for residents to not only
evacuate their residence but to also evacuate the Valley.

Resident evacuation of the Valley may be required due to:

  • Immediate threat to life or serious injury with no viable access to refuge points (Urgent)
  • Immediate need for medical attention (Urgent)
  • Intermediate and/or long-term need for alternate housing (Not urgent)
    • Primary residence not accessible due to the disaster
    • Primary residence in need of rehabilitation due to the disaster
    • Primary residence destroyed

Bear Valley Springs has only one approved and viable egress route out of the Valley. The egress
route is east via Bear Valley Road, through the main gate to Cummings Valley Road to Highway 202
to Tehachapi.

Evacuation of the Valley should not occur unless it is urgently required as defined above or if
current conditions on the egress route would cause the potential for danger of loss of life or injury.

Unnecessary evacuation via Bear Valley Road when not urgent will potentially result in:

  • Limiting access to the Valley of emergency response vehicles.
  • Blockage of the egress route due to excessive traffic, collisions or stalled vehicles.
    • Resulting in inability to evacuate seriously injured residents.
    • Resulting in the potential for residents to be trapped in their vehicles and unable to
      get out of harm’s way.

Action Steps - Evacuation:

  1. Residents are notified of an event (See Section 2 – Notification) and advised to prepare to
    evacuate or to evacuate. The number of residents notified may be a subset of the Valley
    due to localization of the emergency.

  2. Prepare your residence for evacuation. A list of actions is included in the document
    “Wildfire – Ready, Set, Go! Your Personal Action Plan”. Located on-line at

    https://www.bvcsd.com/documents
    . Section titled Get Set – As the Fire Approaches.
  3. When instructed, evacuate your residence by taking your pre-prepared go bag, other
    essential items, family members and pets. (See Section 1 – Pre-Disaster Preparation)

IF EVACUATION FROM THE VALLEY IS NOT URGENT

  1. Relocate to a Refuge Point away from the emergency event and with the shortest travel
    time

  2. Await further instruction from BVCSD and/or BVPD staff
  3. When urgent evacuation processes have been completed, evacuate the Valley via Bear
    Valley Road
  4. Keep roads clear for emergency equipment and other residents relocating to Refuge
    Points. Remain in place if your Zone has not been notified to evacuate.

IF URGENT EVACUATION FROM THE VALLEY HAS BEEN ORDERED

Evacuate from the Valley via Bear Valley Road and the main gate or via other official guided egress.

Responsibilities - Evacuation:

  • Every resident has the responsibility to review documents and be prepared for evacuation
    including identifying alternate routes to Bear Valley Road and the best Refuge Point under
    various disaster events.
  • BVCSD and BVPD staff are responsible for assisting residents in evacuating the Valley.
  • The Kern County Fire Department is responsible for calling for an evacuation. The BVPD is
    responsible for implementing the process.

Supporting Documentation

BVCSD Web site, https://www.bvcsd.com/documents, under the Emergency Preparedness tab,
has multiple documents referencing wildfire and disaster preparedness and response including:



Section 5 - Post Disaster


Introduction:

Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and
physical well-being. The steps provided below give an overview of actions and issues residents
should consider. A detailed description of the steps can be found at

https://www.ready.gov/recovering-disaster

Action Steps – Post Disaster:

  1. Evaluate the status of personal and family health, safety and well-being.

  2. Only return to your residence when advised it is safe to do so.

  3. Be aware of safety issues created in a disaster including: washed out roads, contaminated
    buildings, contaminated water, gas leaks, broken glass, damaged electrical wiring and
    slippery floors.

  4. Inform local authorities about health and safety issues, including chemical spills, downed
    power lines, washed out roads, smoldering insulation and dead animals

  5. Document all damage via photos, notes, and videos.

  6. Save all receipts for post damage repair and clean-up.

Responsibilities – Post Disaster:

  • Every resident has the responsibility to review documents and be prepared for the actions
    required following a disaster to assist with recovery processes.
  • BVCSD and BVPD staff are responsible for assisting residents in returning to their
    residences following a disaster and advising residents of local, state and federal recovery
    assistance.

Supporting Documentation

BVCSD Web site, https://www.bvcsd.com/documents, under the Emergency Preparedness tab,
has multiple documents referencing wildfire and disaster preparedness and response including:



DPAC Recommendation #1


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Section #2 - Notification

Recommend identifying and assigning appropriate staff and resources to work with all
cellular and hard-wired communications entities serving the Valley to ensure their
systems are sustainable in the event of an environmental emergency.


Actions to include but not limited to:

  • Ensuring the existence of a robust source of back-up power
  • The removal and trimming of all low brush and limbs located close enough to impact
    continuity of service.

Recommendation Background


Disaster notification is broken down to two distinct segments.

  1. Notifying residents that a real or potential disaster event exists
  2. Providing initial and continuous information stream of what is occurring and what
    residents should be doing to mitigate the impact on life and property.


Failure of any or all sources of digital and hard-wired media data sources would leave large
portions of the Valley unaware of the existence of a disaster event.


The current notification system relies primarily on Nixle, social media and via in-person
door to door.

  • Nixle and social media limitations include:
    • Residents must register to receive Nixle notifications. A majority of
      residences have yet to register.
    • Heavy reliance on mobile phone voice and data technology.
      • Cell towers could become inoperative due to loss of power
      • Loss of data connection
      • Physical damage to cell phone towers.
    • Many residents no longer have hard wired phones.
    • Mobile phone coverage not available in all areas.
    • Hard wired internet access could be disrupted or damaged.
  • In-person door to door notification limitations include:
    • Significant staff and volunteer requirements
    • Slow process, leaving large portions of the Valley uninformed.



DPAC Recommendation #2


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Section #2 - Notification

Recommend the purchase and installation of a siren-based disaster notification system

Actions to include but not limited to:

  • That BVCSD authorize the purchase of no less than seven [7] civil defense / safety
    alert sirens for emplacement upon the Association's tallest water towers for initial
    community alert in the event of natural Emergency (fire/ high winds / flooding /
    earthquakes). Sites co-located with existing backup power and data access.
  • That these civil defense / emergency alert sirens be electronically controlled by specific
    BVCSD personnel at the CSD offices and are solely for the use in the event of a
    natural Emergency.
  • Develop policies regarding siren use. Including:
    • Valley wide? Vs. targeting?
    • Length of siren activation
    • What residents are supposed to do when they hear a siren
    • System testing protocols

Recommendation Background

Disaster notification is broken down to two distinct segments.

  1. Notifying residents that a real or potential disaster event exists
  2. Providing initial and continuous information stream of what is occurring and what
    residents should be doing to mitigate the impact on life and property.


The utilization of a siren system would immediately ensure all Valley residents would be aware
that a disaster event exists. They would then utilize existing and recommended communication
systems for further information.


Failure of any or all sources of digital and hard-wired media data sources would leave large
portions of the Valley unaware of the existence of a disaster event.


The current notification system relies primarily on Nixle, social media and via in-person
door to door.

Nixle and social media limitations include:

  • Residents must register to receive Nixle notifications. A majority of
    residences have yet to register.
  • Heavy reliance on mobile phone voice and data technology.
    • Cell towers could become inoperative due to loss of power
    • Loss of data connection
    • Physical damage to cell phone towers.
    • Many residents no longer have hard wired phones.
    • Mobile phones can be silenced or turned off.
    • Mobile phone coverage not available in all areas.
    • Hard wired internet access could be disrupted or damaged.
  • In-person door to door notification limitations include:
    • Significant staff and volunteer requirements
    • Slow process, leaving large portions of the Valley uninformed



DPAC Recommendation #3


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Section #2 - Notification

Recommend the creation of a redundant system for residents to receive initial and ongoing
disaster information. To be accomplished by the purchase of portable SIMPLEX message
radio receivers. And, organize existing Valley amateur radio operators to distribute
notifications.


Recommendation Background


Disaster notification is broken down to two distinct segments.

  1. Notifying residents that a real or potential disaster event exists
  2. Providing initial and continuous information stream of what is occurring and what
    residents should be doing to mitigate the impact on life and property.


Existing disaster information services have many limitations as described in recommendations
#1 and #2. A redundant system is necessary to ensure all residents are kept informed as to the
status of a disaster and to receive instructions to protect their lives and property. The
portability of the receivers would allow residents to continue to receive important information
regardless of their location.


The described portable radios are relatively inexpensive (price currently being researched by a
DPAC member). The receivers would be preprogrammed to the appropriate frequency for
simple use by residents. They could be made available to all BVS residents utilizing District
funds, or be made available for purchase from the BVCSD.



DPAC Recommendation #4


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Sections #3 - Resident Relocation and #4 – Resident
Evacuation

Recommend the purchase and installation of “Not a through Street,” “Dead End,” or “No
Exit” signs at the intersections of all BVS streets without an alternative exit.

Recommendation Background

In the event of a disaster situation residents evacuating their home are under a high level of
stress. Even familiar roads and egress routes can become disorienting in stressful and low
visibility situations. Many roads in the Valley with no alternate exits have no signage indicating
there is no exit. With no exit, people can get trapped.

Many fatalities and injuries in wildfires have occurred by evacuating residents who became
disoriented and trapped in deadly situations. Appropriate signage could mitigate this situation
and improve the flow of traffic to Valley Refuge Points and/or evacuation to outside the Valley.



DPAC Recommendation #5 - Closed


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Sections #3 - Resident Relocation

Recommend performing necessary infrastructure changes to increase the number of
available Refuge Points

Conclusions:

There is no additional BVCSD-owned land on the Valley floor that would be appropriate for additional Refuge Points



DPAC Recommendation #6


Relates to the Disaster Preparedness Plan Sections #4 - Resident Evacuation


Recommend creating alternate egress routes on the west end of the Valley

  • For the west end of Deertrail
  • For the southwest corner of the Valley

Recommendation Background

At present, there is only one approved egress route out of the Valley - east via Bear Valley
Road.

Alternate egress routes should be identified. Bear Valley Springs is entirely surrounded by
private property requiring agreements with private property owners to allow Valley residents
to have access to cross their property in the event of a disaster.

The highest urgency is an alternate egress route out of the west side of the Valley. Due to high
and rugged terrain, the potential exists for residents in the upper Deertrail area to be cut off
from access to refuge points on the Valley floor and/or evacuation via Bear Valley Road.
Currently, Deertrail extends to the north/west Valley border at the shooting range. The road
then extends beyond that point past a locked gate through the Tejon Ranch to the San Juaquin
Valley floor.

A potential egress route for the west end of the Valley to the San Juaquin Valley exists at the
end of Sheeptrail Court and Woodbine Court. At the cul-de-sac of both streets are locked gates
allowing entry into Black Oaks Ranch and an improved dirt roads through the Ranch to the San
Juaquin Valley floor.

A potential egress route to Cummings Valley exists from the west end of Skyline Drive. Located
at the west end of Skyline Drive, prior to the turn down to Lower Valley Road is a dirt road
heading south. At the entrance to the route at Skyline Drive is a sign stating “No Trespassing
Emergency Access Route Unauthorized users prohibited.” There are two residences past the
sign on a paved section of the road before reaching the first gate. A dirt road extends beyond
the first gate to a second gate. This road is currently only one lane and not appropriate for
most types of private vehicles. After the second gate is Hidden Oaks Ranch and a well-
maintained two-lane dirt road that passes through Hidden Oaks Ranch to Sasia Road in
Cummings Valley (approximately 2.75 miles). The road is financially maintained by the
residents of the Ranch. The BVCSD has a 30 feet easement on the road from Skyline Drive to
the second gate and the start of Hidden Oaks Ranch. Grading between the 1
st and 2nd gates is
required to make this route usable for 2wd vehicles.

Page last updated: 26 Jun 2023, 09:02 AM