CAL FIRE Reinstates Burn Ban in San Mateo and Other Counties

CAL FIRE Declares Burn Ban in Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, portions of Stanislaus, and Western San Joaquin Counties

Felton – On December 30, 2013, CAL FIRE will suspend all open burning within the State Responsibility Area and Local Responsibility Areas under contract to CAL FIRE in the following counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, portions of Stanislaus, and Western San Joaquin Counties.

Experience has shown that open burning suspensions effectively aid in preventing fire escapes and significantly reduces the risk and occurrence of large fires. This is especially important as these counties are currently experiencing record breaking low cumulative rainfall, low humidity, dry fuel moisture levels and increased fire activity. So far in November and December this year in Santa Cruz County alone, out of 31 vegetation fires, we have experienced 15 escaped debris fires. Normal for the same period would be an estimated 5 to 7 vegetation fires alone.

Download the press release and additional information, here.