Firefighters from across Southern California are putting out the word that the summer and fall months ahead have the potential for a very dangerous fire season.
Fire agencies met at the Los County Fire headquarters to discuss plans for mutual aid and deployment. Last fire season saw two historic wildfires, the Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire, which destroyed thousands of homes.
“The rain has been lighter than average, with dried out vegetation becoming fuel for wildfires, especially in the Santa Monica Mountains and the Santa Clarita and Antelope Valleys of L.A. County,” L.A. County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said. “That is why we must continue to remain vigilant and share with residents and communities the importance of being prepared for the inevitable wildfires that will come this summer and into the fall when dangerous Santa Ana winds return.”
L.A. City Fire Interim Chief Ronnie Villanueva said now is the time to prepare.
“Remove dead vegetation within 100 feet of your homes, including from under decks and porches. Keep flammable wood piles and combustible materials away from your homes, and garage structures,” he said. Prune trees to create distance between you and their homes. Consider creating the defensible space between your home and any adjacent green belt areas. Keep lawns hydrated. Cut them down if dry.”
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He also encouraged the public to practice evacuation plans for their home and neighborhood.
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