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Academic Advocate Sponsors
OC Managers’ Breakfast: Fire Preparedness
March 26, 2025
Nicole Kardos, CMCA, AMS of Optimum Professional Property Management, AAMC and Jamie Hackwith, CMCA, AMS, PCAM of Prendiville Insurance Agency
During the recent CAI-OC Managers’ Breakfast held March 26th, more than 40 managers gathered with local leaders for an in-depth look at fi re preparedness. The event, hosted at the Crown Valley Community Center in Laguna Niguel, focused on the importance of robust fi re safety measures within HOAs; an issue made even more urgent by the recent Los Angeles wildfi res.
The event centered around wildfi re preparedness and community resilience, bringing together experts and local leaders to share strategies for reducing fi re risk in Southern California HOA communities. Topics included Vegetation Management, Structure Hardening, Household Fire Dangers, the impact of landscaping choices, and important insurance and risk management considerations relevant to community managers and the associations they serve.
The expert panelists included Nathan Babbit from the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA); Patrick Prendiville, CIRMS, of Prendiville Insurance Agency; Matt Davenport from Monarch Environmental; and Jennifer Eldair, CMCA, AMS of Vintage Group.
Breakfast Booster Sponsors
Alan Smith Pools Animal Pest Management Services, Inc.
Azury Landscaping, Inc. SmartStreet powered by BANC of California Whitestone Industries
Key Takeaways from the discussion included:
Vegetation Management & Fuel Modifi cation A major focus was on the importance of proper vegetation management within HOA-controlled areas. Panelists highlighted the need for:
• Year-round maintenance of slopes and fuel modifi cation zones.
• Creating and maintaining fi re breaks through strategic landscaping.
• Regular communication and education between HOAs, landscape vendors, and property owners to ensure compliance with fi re safety standards.
• Strict setback rules for private property owners, as combustible structures or inappropriate plantings within setbacks could lead to violations from OCFA.
Education and Inspections OCFA’s approach to fi re preparedness relies heavily on education and collaboration with HOA boards, management companies, and landscapers. HOAs can request community presentations through OCFA to educate members on fi re safety best practices by visiting: OCFA Presentation Request.
OCFA also conducts inspections for HOA structures to assess fi re hardening measures, ensuring buildings have the best chance to withstand wildfi res.
30 May | June 2025
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