City of Santa Cruz activates emergency operations center, prepares residents

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (KION) Evacuations for the CZU August Complex Fires have approached the City of Santa Cruz, and as a result, the City activated its emergency operations center Friday morning.

The city said it will focus on limiting fire risks in the city and helping residents prepare their homes.

Officials said fire control lines have been cut to help secure the city's perimeter, and changes in weather and help from other western fire agencies have helped in the fire fight.

To prepare, retired firefighters, CERT volunteers, lifeguards and community leaders are helping with preparations in the neighborhoods along Western Drive and High Street.

“We are optimistic that we are not going to have to evacuate. We are optimistic that the fire is not going to impact the City of Santa Cruz. However, we are making plans in case it does happen,” said City of Santa Cruz Fire Chief Jason Hajduk.

To protect homes, officials said residents should remove flammable items from outside homes, remove flammable vegetation, leave exterior lights on and check on neighbors.