As California residents navigate the ongoing threat of fire season, a number of resources are available to stay informed, including mobile apps like Watch Duty.
Californians are no stranger to wildfires and on the website, Cal Fire explains the potential threats that Southern Californians face.
“In Southern California, the threat is driven by persistent drought, high grass loads, and weakening coastal moisture. … Models are aligning for an early and active season, with elevated risk continuing into September,” Cal Fire stated.
In this climate, apps like Watch Duty help residents stay informed and safe. Recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Watch Duty aims to serve users by monitoring local wildfires and issuing relevant updates in real-time.
Most Watch Duty users rely on the app for their main feature, the wildfire map. The map includes fire information, evacuation zones, power outages, shelter locations and more for people to use in case of a fire.
Users are able to pay an additional cost for the aircraft tracking feature, allowing them to track air tankers and helicopters in flight.
Watch Duty is able to maintain the upkeep of this app with the help of volunteer firefighters, dispatchers and reporters who gather and report information using radio communication and official sources.
The recent Pyrite Fire affected nearby communities, including Jurupa Valley where some California Baptist University students live. According to Cal Fire, the fire started at 5:19 p.m. on Sept. 5 and burned 551 acres before it was fully contained.
Watch Duty and its team of volunteers informed users of the nearby threat, issued evacuation warnings and updated containment percentages as the fire progressed.
In areas where the threat of wildfires is nearly constant, Watch Duty serves as a vital tool conveniently available at residents’ fingertips.
