The San Diego Regional Fire Foundation has awarded $276,000 in 2026 Project SAFE grants to 30 Fire Safe Councils and East County Magazine, according to East County Magazine. The grants are aimed at wildfire prevention, preparedness and public education across San Diego County.

Fire Safe Councils are volunteer-led community groups that help neighborhoods reduce wildfire risk through projects such as vegetation chipping, home hardening education, reflective address signs and emergency-preparedness outreach. East County Magazine reported that San Diego County has more than 50 Fire Safe Councils, supported by the regional foundation.

The 2026 grant list includes several inland and backcountry areas familiar to East County residents, including Crest, Descanso, Eucalyptus Hills, Laguna, Ramona West End, Real East County and Wynola Estates. The awards also include support for East County Magazine's wildfire and emergency alerts.

For Santee residents, the practical takeaway is regional: wildfire risk does not stop at city borders. Santee sits close to riverbed, canyon and backcountry corridors where wind, dry brush and regional evacuations can affect daily life even when a fire starts outside city limits.

East County Magazine credited the San Diego Regional Fire Foundation, San Diego River Conservancy, SDG&E and other donors for supporting the program. Residents can follow local fire agencies and official emergency alerts for evacuation notices, defensible-space guidance and seasonal fire restrictions.