The Scottsdale Fire Department will host a town hall discussion on wildfire mitigation.

Experts will explain how the department responds to fires, along with city policies in natural area open spaces. Residents can learn how to reduce fire risks and protect properties.

The discussion will take place Wednesday, March 19, at 6:30 p.m. at the Homestead at DC Ranch, 18600 N. 98th St., Scottsdale, AZ 85255.

In a prepared statement, Mayor Lisa Borowsky said, “We have all watched wildfires devastate Los Angeles, due, in part, to the accumulation of underbrush and dead foliage which increased the danger. While not at a comparable scale, Scottsdale, particularly in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, faces similar risks with invasive species growth and highly flammable overgrowth."

Fire Chief Tom Shannon said, "By working together, we can better prepare our neighborhoods and protect our homes and residents from the growing threat of wildfires."