Law Enforcement officials with the Tuolumne-Calaveras Unit of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) have released causes on three fires that occurred over the last week. The Reed Fire in San Andreas, which burned 109 acres and destroyed two structures, was caused by a grinding operation. The Oak Fire on Pool Station Road near Copperopolis, which burned 88 acres and destroyed one structure, was caused by a grinding operation. The Rawhide fire on Rawhide Road near Jamestown, which burned one acre, was also caused by a grinding operation. These metal-on-metal activities produced a large amount of sparks that landed in dry vegetation and started these three fires.
State law requires that any operation of any equipment that can produce a spark in vegetation covered areas requires the following: (California Public Resources Code 4427)
- A minimum 10 foot clearance of all flammable vegetation around the operation area.
- Maintain a shovel and a backpack pump water-type fire extinguisher in the working areas.
Statewide, California has experienced record-breaking low rainfall, low humidity, and low fuel moisture levels, along with higher than normal temperatures and increased fire activity. This year, CAL FIRE opened fire season months earlier than normal. These recent fires indicate native vegetation is much more susceptible to ignition and are burning hotter and faster than normal.
As a reminder to the community, all outdoor operations need to comply with California law. Projects should preferably be done during the early morning hours. If the project can be moved inside without the risk of starting a fire, please do so. If the project can be delayed until conditions are more favorable, that is highly recommended.
As the Fourth of July approaches, CAL FIRE also cautions residents about the use of fireworks. Fireworks of all types are illegal in Tuolumne County, Ebbetts Pass Fire District in Calaveras County, and the Stanislaus National Forest. Safe and Sane labelled fireworks are legal in certain areas of Calaveras County. Please contact your local CAL FIRE station or Fire District if you have questions regarding the legality of fireworks. Residents are also encouraged to take advantage of the numerous professional fireworks displays across the Mother Lode.
Fire Captain Specialist Brenton Brown says, “This year CAL FIRE has responded to an increased number of fires in the Mother Lode area. Most of these fires could have been prevented. If you see someone who is performing a hazardous operation in a fire prone area, talk to them about it. If they continue, call 911 and report it. We need the public’s help to prevent any more damaging fires. One less spark means one less fire.”
Visit www.ReadyforWildfire.org or your nearest CAL FIRE facility for more information on how to prepare for and prevent wildfires.
