Green Reflective Address Signs
First responders need to be able to find your residence at any time & especially in emergencies. The more you help make their job easier, the faster they can move through neighborhoods helping everyone.
Reflective address signs (referred to as ‘911’ signs) are the best way to ensure first responders can find you. They are especially critical in areas where multiple residences share a common driveway. Napa County Fire Dept. regulations provide specifications for these required signs. Signs are generally 6” height by 18” – 24” width, with 4” reflective numbers on a green background, oriented either vertically or horizontally, and must be double-sided so they are visible from both directions.
Spring Mountain Fire Safe Council’s goal is to ensure that the 200+ parcels with in the FSC boundary have installed these life-saving signs through a coordinated effort by Neighborhood Block Captains.
Basic steps
1. Review the sign specifications on County of Napa website.
2. Determine where you will place the sign and what size post you will need. Many properties in more remote areas will need multiple signs if their property branches off a common road or driveway. For example if five properties share a common road or driveway, the first sign will need to be a ‘stacked’ sign with multiple numbers, then each branch needs a sign, until a single sign directs responders to your property. Remember to plan for your post when spacing numbers. Arrows are can be an important addition to numbers.
3. Order sign, post, and mounting accessories as needed. Signs can also be attached to an existing mailbox post if visible from both directions. Safetysign.com provides a good overview of sign and mounting options and walks you through your order. It’s highly recommended to choose the ‘Diamond Grade’ reflective material option to provide the greatest visibility.
Other on-line options include:
https://www.smartsign.com/911-signs
https://www.trafficsignsandsafety.com/shop/product/911-reflective-address-signs
Locally, Howell Mountain Ace Hardware – phone 965-7537 email ace@puc.edu provides fire dept approved green signs with stick-on reflective numbers.
There are also additional signs and/or decals that should be considered for residential or commercial properties located up long driveways that can provide key information to first responders including: turnarounds that can accommodate fire vehicles, water sources, pool, dry hydrant etc. Your Neighborhood Block Captain can help with suggestions and/or referrals to learn more about these additional signs.
Please let us know if you order and install your own sign so we can add it to the list of “accomplished” for this important wildfire preparedness step. Please also feel free to request our help for ordering and installation.