LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The end of summer, final camping trips, last boating adventures and one last barbecue cookout are quickly approaching with the upcoming Labor Day weekend holiday.
For most people this time of year usually marks the unofficial end of summer, but for California, it is historically just the beginning of the most dangerous time for wildfires.
“Cal Fire has seen thousands of wildfires already this year and currently, there is no relief in sight from the dry conditions,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, director of Cal Fire. “The potential for wildfires remains extremely high across the state and everyone must do their part to help prevent new fires from igniting.”
While the fall season may quickly be approaching, the fire risk is far from over. Historically, it’s the months of September and October when California experiences its largest and most damaging wildfires.
Already this year, Cal Fire crews have responded to nearly 5,000 wildfires that have charred nearly 150,000 acres.
Four years of drought and bark beetle infestations have taken their toll on California’s forests and wildland areas.
Cal Fire is reminding everyone to be extra cautious this weekend as fire danger remains high, even extreme in some areas, and fires ignite easily and spread rapidly.
As you take to the great outdoors, Cal Fire offers these important tips to help prevent a wildfire:
Camping
· Obtain a campfire permit.
· Check for loCal Fire restrictions.
· Clear away grass, leaves and other debris within a 10-foot perimeter of any campfire.
· Have a responsible person in attendance at all times.
· Ensure all campfires are completely extinguished before leaving.
· When barbecuing, never leave the grill unattended.
Vehicles
· Never pull over in dry grass.
· Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained.
· When towing ensure chains are not dragging on the ground.
· Check your tire pressure to avoid driving on an exposed wheel rim.
One less spark, means one less wildfire. For more ways to be safe during Labor Day weekend visit www.ReadyForWildfire.org or the Cal Fire Web site at www.fire.ca.gov .
Fire officials urge caution for Labor Day Weekend
- Lake County News reports
- Posted On