Fire Safety During a Critically Dry Summer

As the summer recreation season starts, visitors are traveling to the Eastern Sierra to enjoy camping, fishing, backpacking and other activities that make the east side so special. For many visitors, part of this experience includes having a campfire or operating recreational equipment. Visitors are advised to be extra careful while recreating this summer. While lightning-fires cannot be prevented, visitors can make a difference by helping prevent human-caused fires.

Campfires-If you plan to have a campfire, you must have a valid campfire permit. These are available at the local ranger station or visitor centers for free. Always check the local area for fire restrictions, which can change frequently.

Campfire safety guidelines include:

• Have a shovel and water to put the campfire out. Drown with water and stir with dirt, making sure all burned materials are extinguished. Feel with your hand to make sure it’s out cold.
• Clear all flammable material away from the fire for a minimum of five feet in all directions.
• Have a responsible person in attendance at all times.
• Never leave your campfire unattended.
• Never have a campfire on windy days.

Consider not having a campfire. A propane stove is a great alternative because it is easy to clean up, leaves no trace on the land, and has a low risk of starting a fire in high fire danger areas. Do not burn pallets-Wooden pallets are treated with the chemicals that release toxic fumes when burned. The unburned nails left behind are a hazard and leave litter on your public lands.

Vehicles -All Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) must have a California green or red sticker or be street legal. All vehicles must be equipped with an approved spark arrester. Parking in tall grass or shrubs can start fires when the hot catalytic converter comes in contact with the dry plant materials. Dry, windy conditions can turn smoldering grass into a wall of flames. Keep vehicles on existing roads. Don't park where vegetation is touching the underside of your vehicle.

Equipment Use-Clearing dead grass and brush 100 feet from homes is a critical step in preparing for fire season. However, the unsafe use of power equipment can actually start new fires. Fire agencies remind homeowners of the importance of cutting down overgrown vegetation, but stress doing yard maintenance before 10 AM. The spark from the metal blade of a lawn mower against a rock can easily ignite a wildfire.