Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press [P360P].
The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings and Fire Alerts to fire departments of the onset or possible onset of critical, dry weather conditions that could increase the potential for wildfires.
In light of this, a red flag warning has been issued for weather events that may cause extreme fire behavior within the next 24 hours.
A fire weather watch has also been issued for weather conditions over the next 12 to 72 hours.
"A red flag warning is the highest alert. During these times, all residents should use extreme caution, as a single spark can cause a large wildfire. A fire weather watch is one level below a warning, but the fire danger is still high," said the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.CAL FIRE–.
Through a statement, he said the type of weather patterns that can cause an alert or warning include low relative humidity, high winds, objects that could serve as fuel, the possibility of dry lightning or any combination of the above.
"During a fire danger warning, CAL FIRE will place additional firefighters on duty, fire trucks and equipment ready 24 hours a day to respond to any new fire," the authority said.
In turn, CAL FIRE urged Californians to be extremely cautious, especially during periods of high fire danger.
"It's important for all residents and visitors to take steps to prevent wildfires. One less spark could mean one less wildfire," he said.
Recommendations that could help prevent a fire
- Never mow or trim dry grass on a red flag warning day. -Mow your lawn before 10 a.m. on a day when it is not hot or windy.
- Never use mowers on dry vegetation.
- Spark arresters are required in wilderness areas on all gasoline-powered portable equipment.
- Before starting a campfire, make sure you have a campfire permit and that they are allowed on the land you are visiting, and then make sure your campfire is properly extinguished.
In the case of homes or open spaces, CAL FIRE suggests that residents have 100 feet of space around structures; they also advise removing weeds and dead vegetation, removing leaves and needles from gutters, and branches should be 6 feet off the ground.
For those who drive: never stop in dry grass, make sure the trailer chains are not dragging on the ground, check that your vehicle is properly maintained and that the tires have adequate pressure to avoid driving on the rims, and check that the brakes are working properly.
Finally, ensure that cigarette butts are properly extinguished, never burn debris -such as leaves or branches- on restricted burning days, when it is windy or in areas where it is not allowed; fire only in approved areas and never at metal objects. The population is urged to report any suspicious activity to avoid fires.
