Plumas National forest fire fight

With an increase in summer recreation, fire officials in the Plumas National Forest are asking residents and visitors to help prevent wildfires.

Last week, firefighters said they responded to 27 incidents on the Forest, with 10 of those confirmed wildfires. 

All residential burning permits are currently suspended and there should not be any burning occurring under Cal Fire restrictions.  

To reduce the risk of wildfire, area residents and visitors are advised to do the following:

  • Before going camping, check to see if fire restrictions are in place and never leave a campfire unattended.
  • Build campfires in cleared open areas and keep water and a shovel nearby. Make sure campfires are out and cool to the touch before leaving the area.
  • Consider alternatives to a campfire, such as a portable camp stove.
  • If you are using charcoal, make sure you drown and stir them, repeating until they are cold to the touch.
  • Avoid driving and parking in tall grass or on roads with heavy, fine fuel accumulations. Exhaust particles, hot exhaust pipes and hot catalytic converters can start grass fires in a matter of seconds.
  • Maintain proper tire pressure. Ensure tires are in good condition with solid tread and no cracking in the walls. Driving on exposed wheel rims can throw sparks.
  • Secure chains properly from trailers or other equipment. Sparks from dragging chains, and exhaust from ATVs and motorcycles, can start grass fires.
  • Ensure spark arresters are clean and in working order. Spark arresters are required on all recreational and portable gasoline-powered equipment.
  • Carry firefighting equipment in vehicles, including a shovel, at least one gallon of water or one 2 ½ pound or larger fire extinguisher.

For more information on the Plumas National Forest, visit www.fs.usda.gov/plumas.