WITH REGIONAL WILDFIRES NEAR US, HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

With the recent wildfires in California and throughout the West, here’s a reminder that we must be aware that even the littlest spark can start a massive fire, even here in our desert. Reporter Eric Knabe offers some helpful tips to prevent wildfires…
The winter rain brought us an abundance of vegetation which has dried and become a potential danger we haven’t seen in a while. Here are some things we can do to prevent wildfires. Don’t drive your vehicle onto dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can start fires that you won’t even see—until it’s too late. Practice safe towing. Secure your chain; dragging chains can throw sparks. Use appropriate safety pins and hitch ball to secure chains. When camping, get a campfire permit. Campfire permits can be obtained from any CAL FIRE, US Forest Service, or BLM station or office. Clear an area at least 10 feet in diameter and always keep a shovel and bucket of water nearby at all times. You can also go online to http://www.preventwildfireca.org for more information.