A message from CAL Fire:
Red Flag Warning & Fire Weather Watches
The National Weather Service issues Red Flag Warnings & Fire Weather Watches to alert fire departments of the onset, or possible onset, of critical weather and dry conditions that could lead to rapid or dramatic increases in wildfire activity.
A Red Flag Warning is issued for weather events which may result in extreme fire behavior that will occur within 24 hours. A Fire Weather Watch is issued when weather conditions could exist in the next 12-72 hours. A Red Flag Warning is the highest alert. During these times extreme caution is urged by all residents, because a simple spark can cause a major wildfire. A Fire Weather Watch is one level below a warning, but fire danger is still high.
The type of weather patterns that can cause a watch or warning include low relative humidity, strong winds, dry fuels, the possibility of dry lightning strikes, or any combination of the above.
During heightened fire danger, CAL FIRE will place additional firefighters on duty, staff more fire engines and keep more equipment on 24 hours a day to be able to respond to any new fires. CAL FIRE urges Californians to be extremely cautious, especially during periods of high fire danger. It’s important all residents and visitors take steps to prevent wildfires. One less spark could mean one less wildfire. See below for tips on preventing wildfires.
A few camping tips from Ember Wildfire Defense Solutions:
- Check Regulations. Are fires allowed in the location you are planning to go?
- Choose a safe spot! If you see a fire ring or metal container, this is the best location for you. If you do need to dig a whole for a fire, be sure it is at least a foot deep and contains rocks. Clear the area of brush and other dry leaves.
- Be sure to build a fire correctly. Use the right materials and the right amount, this will keep your fire burning yet small enough to keep it contained.
- Make sure that when you leave, you put the fire out COMPLETELY
