VIDEO: January’s dry conditions across the Northstate have officials urging preparation for the upcoming fire season. Cal Fire reports that while slight rain is expected on Tuesday, Jan. 27, it won’t be enough to counteract the dry spells experienced this month.
The presence of dry grasses and vegetation could heighten fire risks in Shasta County. Cal Fire Battalion Chief Matt Alexander emphasized the importance of caution, even in winter.
“I’ve seen fires that, people burning dead vegetation in a positive way, but it can spread to a home, a shed or an outbuilding, so just because the vegetation isn’t totally dry and we aren’t gonna see a large unwanted vegetation fire, it could still spread to something,” Alexander said.
Cal Fire advises residents to prepare by creating a defensible space around their homes, which includes cutting down grass, trimming bushes and trees and removing dead vegetation. With temperatures expected to rise next week, the risk of fires could increase, making land preparation crucial.
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