Safety & Preparedness
All property owners share responsibility for maintaining a secure mountain community. Common sense and advance planning are the foundation of a safe environment for owners, families, and guests.
Fire Restrictions
The following are strictly prohibited at all times:
- Open fires outside designated fire pits
- Fireworks of any kind
- Discharge of firearms
- Outside burning of any materials
- Igniting fuel of any kind in the open
Formal fire restrictions are common throughout the summer and can prohibit essentially all open fires. Even when no restriction is in effect, keep any permitted fire small and never burn garbage or deadfall. For current statewide fire conditions and restrictions, visit utahfireinfo.gov; the WatchDuty app is also a useful source for wildfire maps and real-time alerts.
Zero Tolerance for Open Fires & Fireworks
The Association maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy. All residents are expected to inform family, guests, and neighbors of these rules. Dangerous activities — particularly during wildfire season — should be reported immediately to the Sheriff or Fire Department by calling 911. Both agencies issue citations for violations.
UWPOA Fire Station
Upper Whittemore has its own volunteer fire station serving the community. Equipment includes:
- Structural and wildland fire apparatus
- 1,200-gallon tactical wildland water tender
- 4,000-gallon water tender
- 2 wildland fast attack trucks
Fire Insurance
Property owners should review their fire insurance coverage regularly. The Timberlakes Fire District has published a letter specifically addressing insurance considerations for properties in this area:
Fire District Letter — Insurance for UWPOA Property Owners (.doc)
Wildlife Safety
Upper Whittemore is active bear, moose, and mountain lion country, and encounters do happen. A few precautions go a long way:
- Secure food and trash and never leave either accessible around your cabin — black bears are increasingly common.
- Give moose a wide berth, especially cows with calves, which can be aggressive. They sometimes linger on the roads, including the road to the gate.
- Mountain lions are seen regularly and have at times shown little fear of people.
- Keep small pets and children close and supervised; unattended pets are at serious risk from predators.
Emergency Notification System
Utah County operates a reverse-911 system that alerts residents of local emergencies via text, email, or phone call. Register your contact information so you receive warnings for fires, floods, and other hazards: