Welcome to HDEAA

The High Desert Emergency Action Alliance (HDEAA) works to build safer, stronger, and more connected desert communities. As a regional hub for wildfire prevention, disaster preparedness, and community resilience, we bring together public agencies, nonprofits, and residents to turn awareness into action.

HDEAA operates in close collaboration with Desert Region Fire Safe (DRFS) — the wildfire mitigation and prevention arm serving the greater Morongo Basin and Inland Empire desert region. Together, we’re expanding access to training, resources, and support that help communities prepare before disaster strikes.

Our mission is simple: connect, prepare, and protect. We unite local, state, and federal partners; empower residents with hands-on education; and advocate for stronger systems that keep our desert region ready and resilient.

From emergency planning and wildfire mitigation to health, safety, and community education, HDEAA and DRFS work side-by-side to close the gap between awareness and action — ensuring that the High Desert is ready for whatever comes next.

Join us in building a safer, healthier, and more resilient desert community.

Our Core Programs

Fire Safe Councils

Our mission is to protect the people of San Bernardino County and their property from the effects of catastrophic fires through education, cooperation, innovation, and action. FSC staff helps implement projects, connect with community members, and leverage partnerships.

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HDEAA

At HDEAA, we pride ourselves on being a trusted broker of connections, a dedicated community partner, and an advocate for positive change. We bring together the knowledge, expertise, and resources of emergency, safety, preparedness, environmental, and health organizations throughout the greater High Desert (HD) region.

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Emergency Training

More than 4.6M people turn to the American Red Cross, the trusted training provider for First Aid, CPR, BLS, and more, every year to gain lifesaving skills. Trust us to deliver unmatched lifesaving training that will provide you the confidence and skills to act when moments matter.

Course Schedule

Community Organizations Active in Disaster

The Morongo Basin COAD is a collaborative network of diverse organizations and community members committed to enhancing disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts in the Morongo Basin communities. By working together, we aim to strengthen the resilience of our region and ensure the well-being of our residents during times of crisis.

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California no-cost Naloxone Distribution Program. HDEAA provides free opioid prevention, response training, and Narcan Nasal Spray in the Morongo Basin.

Narcan Distribution

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Our space serves as a catalyst for discussions, enabling the exchange of ideas, innovative solutions, and best practices that benefit our entire community. By providing a platform for organizations to come together, we create an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

The Center

Reserve

Executive Director

Justin Merino

Wildfire Mitigation & Resilience | Wildland Firefighter | EMT

With over 15 years of experience in nonprofit governance and leadership, Justin has built a career at the intersection of public safety, emergency management, and community resilience. A Wildland Firefighter, EMT, and Mental Health Resilience Officer, Justin serves on multiple boards and leads regional efforts to strengthen wildfire prevention, preparedness, and recovery across Southern California communities.

A proud member of the U.S. Coast Guard and the California State Guard, Justin brings a disciplined, service-first mindset to every mission. His approach blends structure and creativity — skills honed over a decade working with organizations such as the American Red Cross, Team Rubicon, the United Nations, and the City of Los Angeles, as well as through creative production roles with Mercedes-Benz, Warner Bros., Adidas, and Deutsche Telekom.

Justin’s work is rooted in collaboration, adaptive leadership, and a deep commitment to community. Whether leading wildfire mitigation initiatives, shaping policy, or mentoring future responders, he focuses on turning challenges into systems of resilience — empowering others to act, prepare, and protect what matters most.

merino@desertfire.org | 760-853-0220

Associations:

  • Irene Reyes

    PROJECT MANAGER - DEFENSIBLE SPACE COORDINATOR

  • Alex Holz

    STRATEGY & GRANT MANAGEMENT

  • Laura Dyberg

    IEFSA PRESIDENT

  • Marjorie Smith

    MB COAD CHAIR

  • Ahava Quiñones

    FIRST AID & CPR INSTRUCTOR

  • Betty Kerr

    VOLUNTEER

  • Roxanna Shamay

    VOLUNTEER

  • Marty Edwards

    DEFENSIBLE SPACE PROGRAM