AHWAHNEE — The Yosemite Gateway Prescribed Burn Cooperative (YGPBC) is coming together to assist our local non-profit, Eastern Madera County SPCA. The YGPBC is excited to be gathering to conduct a prescribed brushing and pile burn on the Eastern Madera County SPCA property adjacent to the animal care center building in Ahwahnee. The goal is to clear hazardous fuel and debris in preparation for a shelter animal exercise area.
Date & Time: Saturday, April 15, 2023, at 9 a.m.
To register for this event, please click here.
Please arrive by 9 a.m. for a pre-burn briefing and don’t forget to bring an item for the post-burn potluck!
For more information about the Eastern Madera County Fire Safe Council, please visit their website or contact them at info@EasternMaderaCountyFireSafeCouncil.com.
About the Yosemite Gateway Prescribed Burn Cooperative (YGPBC)
The YGPBC is a grassroots organization powered by private citizens, experienced partners in fire, skilled laborers, and others who are new to prescribed fire yet jointly interested in volunteering their efforts to creating a more wildfire resistant landscape in their communities through the use of beneficial prescribed fire. If you are interested in participating in this event, we have roles for experienced sawyers*, persons to drag and pile debris, burn pile managers, safety lookouts, and roles for post burn and pre- burn preparation.
*Sawyers will need to bring their own equipment and safety chaps. Although some head and eye protection will be available via the PBAs equipment, please consider bringing your own if you have some available to free up items for others who may not have their own. All participants, regardless of role, will need to sign a release of liability on arrival and before participating.
For more information about the YGPBC, please call Alison Deak at 209-966-2417 or via e-mail aldeak@ucanr.edu.
Eastern Madera County SPCA
43180 CA-49
Ahwahnee, CA 93601
559-404-0925
Top Ten Safety Tips for Doing a Prescribed Burn
Prescribed burns are a useful tool for land management, but they can also be dangerous if not done properly. Here are ten safety tips for doing a prescribed burn:
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A firefighter using a drip torch to ignite a pile burn.
Get the proper training: Before attempting a prescribed burn, it’s important to get proper training and certification from a reputable organization.
- Have a burn plan: Develop a burn plan that outlines the goals of the burn, the timing, weather conditions, and the resources needed.
- Prepare the area: Clear the area of any debris, vegetation or other potential fuel sources. Set up firebreaks and establish safe zones.
- Monitor the weather: Check the weather forecast for the day of the burn and the following days. Avoid burning in windy or dry conditions.
- Have the right equipment: Make sure you have the right equipment for the job, including tools for starting and controlling the fire.
- Have enough people: You need to have enough people on hand to control the fire and respond to emergencies.
- Wear appropriate clothing: Wear clothing that is made from natural fibers such as cotton or wool, which are less likely to melt or burn. Wear gloves and a hat.
- Establish communication: Set up a communication plan so that everyone involved can stay in contact throughout the burn.
- Be prepared for emergencies: Have a first-aid kit on hand, and be ready to respond to any emergencies that may arise.
- Follow regulations: Always follow local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before conducting a prescribed burn.
Check out this short video by the Forest Service on prescribed fires.
