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Let's Work to Prevent Wild Fires, and Forest Fires

By
Real Estate Agent

As we all know, California has had more than its share of tragic wildfires this year.  Thus far, I've had a grandson, who along with 400 other Boy Scouts were evacuated from their camp near Butte Canyon a couple weeks back.  I've had 2 friends, who needed to leave their homes and get out of harm's way in other California fires.

This time of year is the traditional time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors.  Here in California we are blessed to exist among some of the most beautiful mountains and nature areas imaginable.  I just want to add my voice to other voices in wishing everyone that chooses to enjoy the outdoors to please do so responsibly!  Although, many of our wildfires have been caused by so-called lightening or dry lightening, let's do our part to not become part of the problem.

That means watching your fire use.  Currently our terrain is so dry that the Forest Service has relegated fires into approved fire pits only - if not banned outright.  Even if you are using an approved fire pit make sure that you are safe.  Keep a bucket of water or dirt nearby to throw on any fire that might start to get away.  Make sure that your fire is cold to the touch before leaving it unattended.  No one wants anyone else to suffer through a wildfire that could have been prevented.  Be safe - Be responsible.

Posted by

Myrl Jeffcoat ActiveRain Signature
  

Comments(2)

Steve Hoffacker
Steve Hoffacker LLC - West Palm Beach, FL
Certified Aging In Place Specialist-Instructor

Myrl,

One of the chief culprits in allowing forest fires to both start and spread is the underbrush - the dry, brittle, or dead plants that are close to the ground. This is what a controlled burn takes care of. There has been a tendancy to allow this material to remain rather than be removed.

Steve

Jul 28, 2008 08:34 AM
Myrl Jeffcoat
Sacramento, CA
Greater Sacramento Realtor - Retired

Steve - Yes you are absolutely right!  I know one school of thought has been against that, but with the Tahoe fire a year or so ago, I think we began to see the error of our ways.

The problem now is, there is so many acres in California which are heavily populated with underbrush, how do you find the resources to even do controlled burns.  I'm thinking we turn herds of goats loose on it:-)

Jul 28, 2008 11:08 AM