November 26, 2019 - The weekly CAL FIRE report for Monday, November 25, 2019.

From the CAL FIRE Information Center, I’m Scott McLean with the CAL FIRE Report for Monday, November 25th, 2019.

This last week 127 new wildfires started in California, of which 105 were within CAL FIRE’s jurisdiction.

As you can see, this year was mild compared to 2018, we have had a little under 500 less fires this year than last year. 5,563 responses to wildfires this year compared to last year’s 6,013, but there is a huge difference in the acreage 128,285 this year to 789,019 in 2018.

Even though we have no active fires right now you may still see smoke in parts of the state. With the weather working in our favor it has given us the opportunity to work on some forest management projects using prescribed burns. Prescribed burning is the controlled application of fire to the land to reduce wildfire hazards, clear downed trees, control plant diseases, improve rangeland and wildlife habitats, and restore natural ecosystems.

Here is CAL FIRE’s Chris Anthony along with Rich Adams from California State Parks explaining how important prescribed burns are. 

Click here for video

Thank you, Chris.

For more information on prescribed fire please go to our website readyforwildfire.org. This week we will start to see some precipitation throughout parts of the state. Southern California will continue to see cold and dry weather with some rain later in the week and Northern California will see rain and snow at higher elevations, possibly starting Tuesday afternoon.

When you are traveling this holiday, week be careful, here are some tips to stay safe on the road.

• Check the weather before you hit the road

• Allow for extra time the weather or the extra traffic may slow you down

• Pack extra water and snacks in case you get stranded, it’s also a good idea to keep a blanket in your car.

• And make sure your vehicle is safe and ready for the road, check the tires, windshield wipers, etc.

• And don’t drive tired, take a break if you need to.

• Cell phone charger cords.

Once you get to your holiday location you still need to keep your family safe.

• Keep Children away from hot liquids, hot plates and dishes at the dinner table.

• Make sure you have a properly maintained fire extinguisher handy

• Keep the kids at least 3 feet away from the stove and or the oven.

• If you are going to deep fry a turkey, do follow the instructions closely.

• Make sure your smoke alarms are working

• And turn pot handles to back of stove so they won’t spill

These are a few tips to keep you and your family safe this holiday.

We here at CAL FIRE are wishing you the best this holiday season and to Have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving.


Source: CALFIRE