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We traditionally experience the most number of vegetation fires in August and September, in our area.  A few weeks ago the Soberanes Fire started near Monterey and has grown to over 53,000 acres.  Today over 2,000 homes are threatened and 53 homes have been destroyed.  Investigators believe the fire was started by an illegal campfire.  What can we learn from that fire?

1.  Make sure campfires are dead out.  When you are on your hike this weekend look for old campfires and take a minute to check to see that they are cold to the touch.  If they are not cold, call 911 and we will come out and take care of them.  The more eyes in the woods the better!  Typically, people think their fire is out but the next morning, as the sun warms the area, small embers heat up and fires start.  Over 200 homes were lost in the Angora Fire in South Lake Tahoe in 2007 because of this phenomena. 

2. Clear flammable vegetation, like grass, at least 30 feet away from your house.  Some grasses have grown back and an ember will quickly move to your house.  

3.  Create an evacuation plan.  What will you take?  Do you have photos of your rooms and belongings for insurance?  Have you thought about where you could stay for the duration of an evacuation?  Go to Readyforwildfire.org to learn more and get a checklist. 

Call Truckee Fire for more information or a defensible space inspection.  530-582-7850