Cal Fire Increases Staffing Amid Fire Danger Across California

SACRAMENTO, CA — Cal Fire says it is stepping up its staffing statewide, as strong winds and dry weather have prompted red flag warnings and likely power shutoffs across California.

“We have increased our staffing, but need the public to remain vigilant," said Cal Fire director Thom Porter in a release. "It is important to follow evacuation orders and leave early as fires move very fast under these conditions."

The agency did not specify how many staff it plans to add, but emphasized that it is not involved in the decisions by agencies like PG&E to shut off customers' power in order to prevent fires. Only when a fire is actively burning around power lines, Cal Fire said, does the agency request a shut-off.

Cal Fire issued several safety tips for avoiding and dealing with fires, including:

• Don’t mow or trim dry grass on windy days
• Never pull your vehicle over in dry grass
• Target shoot only in approved areas, use lead ammunition only, and never at metal
• Check and obey burn bans
• Ensure campfires are allowed, and if so, be sure to extinguish them completely
• Report any suspicious activities to prevent arson, see something – say something