On Monday evening July 12, 2004 during the Verbenia Fire, USDA Forest Service District Ranger Laurie Rosenthal called on the Mountain Communities Fire Safe Council to get the word out that a public meeting on the status of the fire would be held the next night (July 13) at the Idyllwild Fire Training Room. During the day on July 13, the MCFSC set up a phone tree and handed out fliers at the post office to get the word about the meeting to as many members of the community as possible.

The Verbenia Fire started in the afternoon of July 11 near Snow Creek north of Palm Springs. It moved rapidly to within about 5 miles of Pine Cove and rumors were flying regarding its status and possible evacuation.

By the time of the meeting so many people were arriving that it was moved to the San Jacinto State Park where the summer band concerts were being held. An estimated 400-500 people came to hear information about the fire. The Forest Service, Calif. Dept. of Forestry and Fire Protection and Riverside County Fire Dept. personnel spent an hour explaining the status, responding to rumors and allaying fears of the community.

By the time of the meeting the fire was 43 percent contained and contingencies had been developed for possible evacuation if the need arose. This is an example of the kind of agency and community coordination and education that Fire Safe Councils can provide. While the fire personnel were busy fighting the fire and planning for contingencies, the MCFSC was able to provide a link to the community.