San Andreas, CA…The increasing fire danger posed by dead grass along with hotter and drier conditions in the region is prompting CAL FIRE Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit (TCU) remind community members that it only takes one spark to ignite a devastating fire. “The last few years saw devastating reminder’s that the public cannot let their guard down. Together, we must continue to adapt and evolve to be able to withstand the intensity of these fires, keeping in mind, that the only way to mitigate the damage they cause is through prevention and preparation,” said Chief Thom Porter, CAL FIRE Director. “The potential is great for the dry, hot weather that fueled the massive fires over the last few years will return again this year, so it is up to the public to be ready.”

Since January 1, 2021 CAL FIRE and firefighters across the state have already responded to over 2,481 wildfires. In the CAL FIRE TCU Unit, firefighters have responded to 117 wildfires. While outdoor burning of landscape debris by homeowners is no longer allowed, CAL FIRE is asking residents to take that extra time to ensure that they are prepared for wildfires by maintaining a minimum of 100 feet of Defensible Space around every home and buildings on their property and being prepared to evacuate if the time comes.

Here are some tips to help prepare homes and property:
• Clear all dead and or dying vegetation 100 feet from around all structures.
• Landscape with fire resistant plants and non-flammable ground cover.
• Find alternative ways to dispose of landscape debris like chipping or hauling it to a biomass energy or green waste facility.

The suspension of burn permits for residential hazard reduction does not apply to campfires within organized campgrounds or on private property. Campfires may be permitted if the campfire is maintained in such a manner as to prevent its spread to the wildland. A campfire permit can be obtained at local fire stations or online at PreventWildfireCA.org. For additional information on how to create Defensible Space, on how to be prepared for wildfires, as well as tips to prevent wildfires, visit www.ReadyForWildfire.org

Effective Monday June 7th, 2021, CALFIRE TCU will be increasing operational staffing to “peak” levels which will staff 22 frontline engines.
###