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.
In addition, a fire weather alert was 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 alert is one level below a warning, but the fire danger remains high," said the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection ?CAL FIRE?.
Through a statement, he noted that 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 engines 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 is 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 am on a day when it is not hot or windy.
- Never use lawn 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 sufficient space of 100 feet around structures; they also advise removing weeds and dead vegetation, removing leaves and needles from gutters, branches should be 6 feet off the ground.
For those who drive: never stop on dry grass, make sure that the trailer chains are not dragging on the ground, verify that your vehicle has the proper maintenance and pressure in the tires to avoid driving on the rims, as well as verify the correct operation of the brakes.
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.
