Editorials

The California fire season is here again and the Berkeley Fire Department would like to remind everyone to be careful. Here are some hints to remain fire safe. 

If you live in the hills: 

• Remove flammable vegetation from around your home a minimum of 30 feet. 

• Limit flammable vegetation on the down slope side of your property up to 100 feet from any structure, 

• Make sure you have a spark arrester on any fireplace. 

• Clear your roof and gutters of leaves and needles. 

• Don’t have open fires. 

• Have an evacuation plan should a wildfire occur in your area. 

• Be especially alert during High Fire Hazard Conditions; when it is hot, windy and dry. 

• Report fires or suspicious behavior; don’t depend on someone else to do it. Call 911. 

General fire safety tips no matter where you live: 

• Be careful with barbecues; don’t place them on wooden decks or railings. 

• Don’t put burned BBQ coals in the trash or on flammable materials. 

• Dispose of all smoking materials in a proper container and smoke only in safe areas, 

• Check your smoke detector batteries and have an escape plan for your home. 

• Fireworks are dangerous – and illegal in Berkeley. 

For more information contact the Berkeley Fire Prevention Division at 644-6158. To sign up for a Community Emergency Response Training Class, call 644-8736.