MADERA COUNTY – Due to Red Flag Alert conditions and lack of precipitation, the menace of wildfires still remains prevalent with the potential to destroy life and property.
Due to these extreme conditions, Nancy Koerperich, Cal Fire MMU Unit & Fire Chief has suspended all burning with the State Responsibility Areas in Madera County, beginning at 8 a.m. on Friday Jan. 17.
In a statement released on Thursday, Jan 16., Koerperich states that past fire history combined with dry vegetation and predicted fire weather has prompted her to proclaim certain burning restrictions and exceptions:
RESTRICTIONS:
All San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD) Hazard Reduction and Prescribed Burning Permits within State Responsibility Areas will be SUSPENDED beginning 8 a.m., Friday, Jan. 17. Previously issued permits will no longer be valid until the proclamation is rescinded.
EXCEPTIONS:
Campfires within organized campgrounds or on private property are allowed if the purpose of the campfire is for cooking or providing warmth and is maintained in such a manner as to prevent the campfire from spreading to the wildland vegetation.
This suspension will continue in place until formally rescinded by Chief Koerperich.
For more information on fire safety visit your local fire station or visit www.fire.ca.gov or www.ReadyForWildfire.org
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. (www.fire.ca.gov)
