OSI Urges Residents to Remain Vigilant and Review Prevention and Preparedness Recommendations

Contact: Elouisa Tyler, Consumer Assistance Bureau Chief
Email: Elouisa.Tyler@osi.nm.gov

SANTA FE, N.M. – As Wildfire Awareness Month concludes, the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance reminds residents that wildfire prevention remains a shared responsibility that extends well beyond the month of May. With the state’s peak fire danger continuing into the summer months, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and practice simple safety measures that can significantly reduce wildfire risk.

Even seemingly small steps and proactive measures can make all the difference in protecting your home, property, community, and natural resources. Always keep in mind these prevention and safety measures during wildfire season:

  • Summer activities and outdoor recreation: Use extra caution when grilling, lighting and distinguishing campfires, or using fireworks. Avoid these activities during windy or high fire danger conditions.
  • Home hardening and defensible space: Create a defensible space around your home by clearing dead vegetation, cleaning roofs and gutters, and using fire-resistant materials to improve your home’s chances of surviving wildfire. Learn more about the Wildfire Prepared Home program here.
  • Safe use of mechanical equipment: Activities such as mowing, welding, or using power tools can create sparks that ignite dry grass. Operating equipment during cooler morning hours and ensuring spark arresters are in place can help reduce risk.
  • Identifying and reporting hazards: Quickly report smoke, unattended fires, or hazardous conditions to help fire agencies respond faster. You should never assume someone else has already made the report.
  • Vehicle and towing safety: Proper vehicle maintenance is critical during fire season. Check for dragging trailer chains, securing loads, and ensuring tires are properly inflated to prevent roadside sparks.
  • Emergency go-bag preparedness: Having a go-bag ready with essentials such as medications, important documents, flashlights, batteries, water, and clothing can help families evacuate quickly and safely if needed. Reviewing your evacuation routes is also key to leaving safely at a moment’s notice.

“Wildfire prevention starts with everyday decisions that come together to make a big impact,” said Melissa Robertson, Bureau Chief, Property and Casualty Bureau, OSI. “Whether it’s maintaining your property, using equipment responsibly, or simply being prepared to evacuate – small steps New Mexicans take today can prevent the next devastating wildfire tomorrow.”

Check out OSI’s video on wildfire preparedness and more information on this page.

For more information about wildfire prevention and defensible space from New Mexico’s Forestry Division (EMNRD) visit this page.

Media Note: In-person interviews are available in Santa Fe. Virtual interviews via Teams and phone interviews are also available.

###

About the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance
The Office of the Superintendent of Insurance (OSI) is New Mexico’s regulatory agency responsible for overseeing a wide range of insurance products, including private health and life insurance, auto, home, business, and title insurance. Bureaus within OSI that assist with disaster and wildfire-related insurance are the Property and Casualty Bureau – which reviews and renders determinations on property and casualty rates, rules, and form filings – and the Consumer Assistance Bureau, which has specialized knowledge in the insurance claims and complaint process and assists consumers with their insurance disputes, as well as educates consumers for a better understanding of their policies and coverages.

THE OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF INSURANCE RECAPS WILDFIRE AWARENESS MONTH