Serving the cities of Yelm, Rainier, and surrounding unincorporated areas.
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SETFA earns clean audit, upholds strong financial practices

Fire authority commended for transparency and accountability

YELM, Wash. – Southeast Thurston Fire Authority (SETFA) has again received top marks for financial accountability, continuing its strong track record of clean audits and responsible fiscal management.
 
SETFA serves 30,000 residents across 120 square miles, including the cities of Yelm, Rainier, and surrounding unincorporated areas. The agency operates under a balanced budget and is governed by a six-member board of locally elected fire commissioners. Financial and policy decisions are guided by a five-year Strategic Plan and a Capital Facilities Plan, both developed with input from the community.
 
“Openness and accountability are essential to how we operate,” said Fire Chief Mark King. “Our team takes pride in managing public funds carefully and making sure every dollar supports the critical services our community depends on.”
 
SETFA has passed every independent financial and accountability audit conducted by the Washington State Auditor’s Office—a reflection of the agency’s commitment to transparency and good governance.
 
To maximize taxpayer resources, the fire authority actively seeks grants, partners with neighboring agencies to share costs, and collects impact fees on new development to help offset rising service demands.
 
All SETFA board meetings are open to the public. Agendas, financial reports, and long-term planning documents are available at sethurstonfire.org/setfa-receives-clean-audit/.
 
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Southeast Thurston Fire Authority provides emergency response for fires and emergency medical service to 30,000 people over 120 square miles, including the cities of Yelm, Rainier and surrounding unincorporated areas. SETFA relies on full-time and volunteer emergency personnel to respond to more than 4,000 calls per year. Learn more at setfa.org

Are You Wildfire Ready?

Are You Wildfire Ready?
 
Wildfire is a reality for many communities, but by working together, we can significantly reduce the risk it poses to our homes and properties. That’s why SE Thurston Fire Authority is proud to collaborate with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to bring you the Wildfire Ready Neighbors (WRN) program. This initiative is designed to help you prepare for wildfire threats and protect your community.

Download Wildfire Ready Neighbors Flyer (PDF, 339 KB)

 

Get Your Free Wildfire Ready Plan
 
Our Wildfire Ready Plan is a personalized guide created by local wildfire experts to help you understand and mitigate the risks specific to your property. This plan is tailored to fit your unique needs, budget, and lifestyle, ensuring you can take effective action to safeguard your home.
 
Why Participate?
 
When you join the Wildfire Ready Neighbors program, you’re not just protecting your property—you’re contributing to the safety and resilience of your entire community. By working together, we can create a network of prepared and informed neighbors, making our communities more resilient against wildfires.
 
How to Get Started
 
Participating in the Wildfire Ready Neighbors program is easy. Just follow these three simple steps:
 
  1. Sign Up and Survey: Tap the sign-up link and complete a brief survey about your property and current wildfire preparedness. This helps our experts understand your specific situation.
 
  1. Receive Your Plan and Consultation: Based on your survey responses, you will receive a customized Wildfire Ready Plan. Our local wildfire experts will schedule a consultation with you to discuss your plan and answer any questions you may have.
 
  1. Take Action: Implement the recommendations in your Wildfire Ready Plan. Take steps to protect your property, connect with local resources, and encourage your neighbors to join the program.
 
Create a Defensible Space
 
A key component of wildfire preparedness is creating a defensible space around your property. This involves specific actions you can take in different zones around your home to reduce the risk of wildfire spreading. Your Wildfire Ready Plan will include detailed instructions for creating a defensible space, tailored to your property’s unique characteristics.
 

defensible zone image

 
Wildfire Readiness by the Numbers
 
We are committed to tracking our progress and celebrating our successes. Here’s how we’re doing so far:
    • Wildfire Ready Neighbors Signed Up: Join the growing number of community members taking proactive steps to prepare for wildfire.
    • Requests for In-Person Home Visits or Forest Health Consultations: Benefit from personalized advice and support from our local experts.
    • Actions Participants Committed to Take on Their Properties: Every action counts. Commit to making your property safer today.
 
Serving Yelm, Rainier, and Surrounding Unincorporated Areas
 
The Wildfire Ready Neighbors program is focused on serving the communities of Yelm, Rainier, and the surrounding unincorporated areas. By working together, we can enhance the safety and resilience of our communities against wildfires.
 
Take the First Step Today
 
Protecting your property from wildfire doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the Wildfire Ready Neighbors program, you have access to the tools, resources, and expert advice you need to create a safer environment for yourself and your community.
 
Sign Up Today and take the first step towards Wildfire readiness. Visit the link below for more information and to complete your survey. Together, we can create a more resilient and prepared community!
 
 

By participating in the Wildfire Ready Neighbors program, you’re making a significant contribution to the safety and resilience of your community. Don’t wait—start preparing today!