CAFMA Launches “Fire Aside” Program to Strengthen Community Wildfire Resilience

Photo: Carrie Johnson, CAFMA Fire Inspector, completes a courtesy wildfire risk assessment in Chino Valley, Arizona

The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) has implemented Fire Aside, a new program designed to improve how wildfire risk is assessed and addressed across the region using a data-driven approach. The initiative strengthens mitigation efforts by combining data collection, analysis, and communication tools that help fire personnel and residents identify and reduce wildfire risk.

Fire Aside streamlines wildfire risk evaluations, fuel reduction tracking, and outreach, ensuring mitigation efforts are consistent and actionable. At its core, the platform maintains parcel-level vegetation and structure data, creating a reliable “ground truth” layer that supports grant applications, code compliance, issue resolution, and improved wildfire risk modeling and operational planning across CAFMA’s response area.

“This program gives us a much clearer picture of risk at the parcel level while also improving how we connect with our community about mitigation efforts,” said Darrell Tirpak, Fire Marshal for CAFMA. “Fire Aside allows us to move from isolated inspections to a more coordinated, data-informed approach that strengthens resilience across the entire area.”

Residents within CAFMA’s jurisdiction can schedule a courtesy wildfire risk assessment by calling CAFMA’s Administration Office at 928-772-7711. During the visit, fire personnel use Fire Aside to complete a standardized, parcel-level evaluation of the property, documenting vegetation, structure conditions, and potential hazards in real time. The information is entered into the platform to create a consistent risk profile and guide mitigation recommendations and follow-up with the property owner, while also supporting broader wildfire risk planning across the community.

By combining field data with modern analytics and communication tools, Fire Aside will help CAFMA bridge the gap between fire professionals and residents, making it easier for property owners to understand risk and take meaningful action before wildfire threatens their homes.

For more information about CAFMA, or to set up a courtesy wildfire risk assessment, visit CAFMA’s website at https://www.cazfire.gov or call 928-772-7711.