San Andreas, CA…As drought conditions continue to increase fire danger in the region, CAL FIRE has suspended all burn permits for outdoor open residential burning within the State Responsibility Area of Tuolumne County, Calaveras County, Eastern Stanislaus County and Eastern San Joaquin County. This suspension takes effect June 1, 2015 and bans all residential outdoor burning of landscape debris including branches and leaves.

“As the days get longer, our outdoor activities will increase. Everyone can help reduce the threat of wildfire by remaining extra vigilant of how activities are being done,” said Unit Chief Josh White. Chief White continued, “TCU is staffed and ready for rapid response to serve the community. Working together we can enjoy the summer days ahead.”

“With record-setting drought conditions we must take every step possible to prevent new wildfires from starting,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, CAL FIRE director. “One Less Spark, means One Less Wildfire.”

Similar to last year, CAL FIRE has already responded to significantly more wildfires than average. CAL FIRE is asking residents to ensure that they are prepared for wildfires including maintaining a minimum of 100 feet of Defensible Space around every home.

Here are some tips to help prepare your home and property:

Clear all dead or dying vegetation 100 feet around all structures.
Landscape with fire resistant/drought tolerant plants
Find alternative ways to dispose of landscape debris like chipping or hauling it to a biomass energy facility

The department may issue restricted temporary burning permits if there is an essential reason due to public health, safety. Agriculture, land management, fire training, and other industrial-type burning may proceed if a CAL FIRE official inspects the burn site and issues a special permit.

Campfires within organized campgrounds or on private property that are otherwise permitted will be allowed if the campfire is maintained in such a manner as to prevent its spread to the wildland.

For additional information on preparing for and preventing wildfires visit www.ReadyForWildfire.org.

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