To the editor: I agree with editorialist Karin Klein’s commentary on the Orange County Department of Public Works’ careless decision to use heavy equipment to move rocks in an extremely high fire risk area. (“Terrible decision sparked wildfire, and the public will pay the price,” Opinion, Sept. 12)
In addition to the more than 23,000 acres of environmental devastation, the tragic mistake that led to the airport fire caused me and thousands of others to evacuate, disrupting our lives and closing roads, schools and businesses. It also put firefighters at risk.
It is outrageous that recent fires have been caused directly or indirectly by so-called preventative measures. At a time when climate change is exacerbating the risk of fires, we should be able to trust that the decisions of our public works and utility companies will not create chaos.
I'm home again, but I can't help but wonder where the mountain lions, deer and bobcats are, and whether another careless act will threaten my home and family.
Gloria Sefton, Trabuco Canyon
