SACRAMENTO, Aug. 27, 2008 - CAL FIRE (The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection) is urging Californians to be extremely cautious, especially this week, due to the current dry and windy weather pattern that is increasing fire danger.
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Northern California and parts of the Bay Area for high temperatures, low humidity and gusty winds through Thursday night.
In response to the increased fire danger associated with this weather forecast, CAL FIRE is warning Californians that conditions are ripe for a wildland fire. "Over 1.3 million acres have already burned this year in California," said CAL FIRE Executive Officer Del Walters. "Vegetation is extremely dry across the state and when you add these dry north winds to the mix, the chance of a major fire igniting increases."
Throughout the state CAL FIRE is placing additional firefighters on duty, staffing more fire engines and keeping more equipment on 24 hours a day. CAL FIRE is also asking for the public's help during this high fire danger time and especially as we approach this holiday weekend. Before starting a campfire, make sure you have a campfire permit and that they are permitted on the land you are visiting. Afterwards, ensure that your campfire is properly extinguished. Also, never pull off into dry grass or brush, as hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can start fires.
For additional tips on how to be fire safe contact your nearest CAL FIRE facility or visit the CAL FIRE Web site at www.fire.ca.gov.
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