SAFETY
FIRE SAFETY
Valley’s Edge will keep Chico safer from wildfire.
Valley’s Edge provides a range of programs and practices for firefighter safety, community planning, landscaping, construction, and maintenance to protect people, property, and natural resources from wildland fire.
BETTER ACCESS FOR FIREFIGHTERS
The location of primary and secondary entrances and exits, emergency access routes, parks, and other common areas allow for evacuation planning and firefighting. Trailheads provide open space access points for emergency equipment, and trails, including a 10 foot-wide enhanced trail along the northern boundary next to Stilson Canyon, serve as fire breaks.
FIRE RESISTANT BUILDING STANDARDS
Requirements for firewise construction (as outlined in Chapter 7A of the California Building Code) apply to any/all buildings located along the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) perimeter. These standards ensure homes located along the WUI are built to reduce the threat of ignition and minimize the spread of structure fires.
FIRE BREAKS & DEFENSIBLE SPACE
The reduction of fire fuels (both horizontal and vertical) are key to keeping residents safe. This, coupled with firebreaks and natural open space buffers and along the northern, southern, and eastern boundaries help reduce the threat and spread of wildland fires.
WATER RESOURCES
A recreational lake serves as an emergency source of water, in addition to a million-gallon water tank and a network of underground pipes that deliver pressurized water to hundreds of fire hydrants, increasing fire suppression capabilities.
CRIME PREVENTION & SAFETY
The Valley’s Edge Specific Plan incorporates the Chico Police Department’s guidelines for “Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED),” an integral component to deterring crime and creating community that reduces fear and occurrence of crime.
NATURAL SURVEILLANCE
More eyes = less crime. Natural surveillance decreases the threat of crime and undesirable behavior by providing strategic visibility for all residents and encouraging social interaction. This is done through intentional design features such as natural sightlines, properly placed windows, lighting, and open fencing.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
Keeping vegetation under control prevents narrowed sidewalks and blocked lighting. Traffic calming techniques such as curb extension lines slow down drivers and provide additional safety for pedestrians/bike riders. Public areas are routinely maintained, fostering community pride and a sense of lawfulness and safety. CPTED’s guidelines and standards provide for a more safe and walkable community.
LIGHTING
Valley’s Edge will be “dark sky compliant,” meaning lighting fixtures illuminate walking paths and people for security, but lighting is directed downward to keep the light away from neighbor properties and help protect Chico’s ability to enjoy the stars.