SRV Fire Warns Not to Start a Wildfire When You Are Trying to Prevent One

Recently, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District has responded to two small wildfires created by residents trying to do the right thing and cut down dry grass that could lead to a fire.

But instead, their effort led to a fire, because the cutting happened during the wrong time of day and faulty equipment was used.

Luckily, the fires were small and didn't cause any injuries or damage, but with conditions ripe for a wildfire to start, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District is warning residents to take extra precaution when clearing brush.

They gave seven tips:

1. Check the weather before starting any weed abatement project. If the temperature is high,  winds are strong or humidity is low, consider choosing another day.  Check websites such as www.weather.gov orwww.wunderground.com for current and future weather conditions.
2. Never attempt an abatement project during a red flag warning day.
3. Always mow or cut weeds before 10 a.m. when moisture levels are highest.
4. Always use tools that are made for cutting weeds; lawn mowers are for lawns not tall dry grass.
5. Insure you have a large container of water or a fire extinguisher with you while you are cutting dry grass or weeds.
6. Consider hiring a professional weed abatement contractor for the more difficult jobs. A list of contractors who perform work in our area can be found on the Districts website at www.firedepartment.org/abatement.
7. If a fire should start from any abatement efforts, always contact the Fire District, even if you have put the fire out.  Firefighters would like to insure the fire is completely extinguished and will not reignite later in the day or overnight.