Last week, the Fremont Fire Department formally transitioned to vegetation fire season operational procedures in conjunction with CAL FIRE and other fire departments throughout Alameda, Santa Clara, and Contra Costa counties.

Statewide, this is the second consecutive dry year and firefighters are bracing for what is anticipated to be a destructive and devastating wildfire season.

Together, the most productive way that we can help withstand both the frequency and intensity of these fires, is through local mitigation, prevention, and education efforts.

“We encourage Fremont residents, businesses and visitors to be very alert, maintain situational awareness and exercise good judgement when in or around dry vegetation,” said Fire Chief Curtis Jacobson.

Here are a few safety tips about how you can help prevent wildfires:

Equipment Safety

• Never mow or trim dry grass on a Red Flag Warning Day. (Mow before 10 AM on a day when it is NOT hot and windy).
• Never use lawn mowers in dry vegetation.
• Avoid power equipment that creates sparks.

Vehicle Safety

• Never pull over in dry grass.
• Ensure trailer chains don't drag on the ground.
• Maintain proper tire pressure. Driving on exposed wheel rims will throw sparks.

General Safety

• Make sure cigarette butts are properly extinguished.
• Avoid activities with open flames or sparks.
• Never burn landscape debris like leaves or branches on No Burn Days, when it's windy or in areas where it is not allowed.

Learn more wildfire preparedness tips.