Cal Fire Reminds Ramonans to Create 'Defensible Space' As Fire Season Approaches

With summer temperatures just around the corner in an acutely dry region, Cal Fire began its annual staffing increases in the San Diego area today.

The additional 58 firefighting personnel will help the state agency be prepared to promptly battle blazes and staff most of its seasonal fire stations around the clock and have water-dropping helicopters at the ready in those locations, officials said.

Additionally, barring a drastic change in weather, Cal Fire will begin staffing its air tankers in Southern California next week.

The results of a recent state Department of Water Resources snow survey have Cal Fire officials concerned about wildfire hazards for Southern California in the coming months. The lack of rain from January to March across the state may go down as the driest ever in northern Sierra Nevada, with only 5 1/2 inches since Jan. 1.

With fire season now officially underway in Southern California, Cal Fire is asking homeowners to ensure that they are prepared for wildfires and that every home has 100 feet of brush-free "defensible space."

The agency also advises residents to clear pine needles and leaves from their roofs, eaves and rain gutters; trim branches six feet from the ground; use trimming, mowing and outdoor power equipment before 10 a.m.; and landscape with fire-resistant plants.

—City News Service