MARIPOSA – Due to the lack of rainfall and higher than normal temperatures this past spring, fire danger is above average across the Central Sierra.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), Madera-Mariposa-Merced Unit (MMU) has transitioned into fire season preparedness levels with increased staffing at all CAL FIRE stations as of Saturday, May 4.
The chance of large and damaging fires exists throughout California.
California lends itself to severe wildfire conditions year round with its unique climate and topography, but this year we are experiencing historic low fuel moistures, and have moved into peak fire season condition earlier than predicted.
MMU would like to take this opportunity to remind all residents that live in the State Responsibility Area (SRA) that MMU will restrict daytime burning as the fuel conditions continue to dry and increase the chance of a wildland fire to actively spread.
Burn restrictions in Eastern Madera and Mariposa Counties will be regulated by elevation. Grass lands in the lower elevations of Eastern Madera, Mariposa and Merced Counties are very dry. Therefore, hazard reduction may be restricted earlier for lower elevations.
Information regarding these restrictions for Madera and Merced Counties will be indicated on the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District burn day phone line at 1-877-429-2876 and on the Mariposa County Burn Day Information line 209-966-1200.
Permit holders must follow all restrictions listed on their permits which include but are not limited to, calling the burn day information line to determine if it is a permissive burn day prior to the ignition of vegetation.
When burning, do so carefully. Always remain in attendance, have access to water, and never burn on days that have windy conditions. By following a few simple steps to create and maintain your defensible space homeowners can drastically increase the survivability of their home during a wildfire.
For more information on fire safety visit CAL FIRE at www.fire.ca.gov or www.ReadyForWildfire.org
