The experience of Paradise, California following the 2018 Camp Fire offers important insights for Altadena's recovery from the Eaton Fire. After losing over 18,000 structures, Paradise implemented comprehensive rebuilding strategies that prioritized fire safety and community resilience. A key part of their success was the establishment of the Rebuild Paradise Foundation, which provided crucial resources including grants for defensible space, pre-approved floor plans, and assistance with construction costs not covered by insurance or FEMA.

Paradise's recovery was significantly shaped by AB-38, a 2019 law requiring enhanced fire safety measures in high-risk areas. The law mandates defensible space inspections, fire hardening disclosures, and will require sellers to provide lists of low-cost fire safety retrofits starting in 2025. These requirements have influenced rebuilding practices by encouraging fire-resistant landscaping and building materials. Paradise also worked with the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety to strengthen building codes, requiring features like fire-resistant roofing and mandatory sprinkler systems.

For Altadena, Paradise's experience suggests several potential strategies: establishing a central rebuilding resource center, developing pre-approved building plans to expedite reconstruction, creating grant programs for fire safety improvements, and adopting enhanced building codes that prioritize fire resistance. However, Altadena will need to navigate similar challenges that Paradise faced, including insurance difficulties, the need for extensive infrastructure repairs, and ensuring an equitable recovery that preserves community character. The success of Paradise's recovery efforts, which have made it California's fastest-growing city, demonstrates that with proper planning and support, communities can rebuild stronger and more resilient after devastating wildfires.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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