FAQs

Is there a paper version of this guide?

This website is designed to be printed: you can print a short pdf version or the entire website here. Each section can also be printed separately. The website offers the most up-to-date and comprehensive information, however.

Who can help after a wildfire?

The Who Can Help section contains the array of known help in a post-wildfire situation for both communities and individuals. There may not be assistance for every specific situation.

What are some steps my community can take to help us recover?

Navigating after a disaster is challenging. We have compiled some helpful tips to get you started and to assist you on your journey to recovery in the Mobilize Your Community section.

What are other key tools and resources?

Some highlighted resources include recovers.org to assist a community in organizing after a disaster, and the ‘After the Fire’ toolkit, which provides customizable communication tools such as sample press releases and door hangers for communities. See Additional Resources for more.

Is this guide useful for other states outside of New Mexico?

Yes. In the first year, the guide was used more frequently by other states. Many of the resources pertain to the United States, while some resources are local. The post-fire and flooding sections are written mainly for the southwest, but may be useful in other areas as well.

Can a BAER (Burned Area Emergency Response) Team help?

The focus of BAER Teams is public land. They work to mitigate the after effects of wildfire, such as flooding. While this often helps protect areas downstream, BAER Teams rarely have the authority or permission to work on private land. Likewise, the US Forest Service has a mandate to work on their public land, and has limited ability to work on private land.

How can I give feedback on this guide or contact the guide administrators?

Click on contact in the footer for questions, ideas or input about this website or the paper guide. 

Can someone present the ‘After Wildfire’ guide at my conference or for my community?

Sometimes. We have limited staff and trained professionals to present the guide. We can sometimes present at conferences in New Mexico and to nearby communities depending on availability.

What are some of the main lessons learned from the After Wildfire guide?

• Communities that have worked together before a disaster can mobilize more rapidly and effectively if/when a disaster does strike.
• While help exists, there are also gaps in assistance, as agencies have specific parameters for the programs and services they provide.