New research finds that the small number of fires that grow extremely quickly cause a disproportionate share of homes and structures damaged or destroyed. These wind-driven fires can move through dry grasslands and toward neighborhoods faster than firefighters can safely contain them.

That matters here in Nevada.

Preparation cannot begin when the smoke is already in the air. We need investments in fire-resilient homes, defensible-space assistance, evacuation planning, clean-air spaces, and support for neighbors who may not have the resources to prepare or recover on their own.

Wildfire resilience is environmental justice. Older adults, renters, low-income families, outdoor workers, and rural communities should not be left to face growing risks alone.

Congregations can be part of this work too: check in on neighbors, keep updated contact lists, help people make evacuation plans, and share trusted information before an emergency begins.

The time to prepare is now—not when the flames arrive.