With hotter and drier weather conditions rolling into parts of California, officials at Yosemite National Park have officially declared the start of fire season. The announcement comes after the fire danger rating indices sit at moderate for three consecutive days.
“The mission of Yosemite Fire and Aviation is to protect communities, visitors, and natural and cultural resources. Any threat to these values will receive an expedient and robust response to unwanted fire. Our crews have been working year-round to mitigate these risks. Now, we ask our visitors and residents to join us in taking simple, but critical steps to prevent human-caused fires.” – Yosemite Acting Fire Management Officer Kelly Singer.
Yosemite National Park reminds both residents and the millions of annual visitors that they all have a role to play in keeping the park safe. Camp fires should never be left unattended and should be fully extinguished (douse, stir, feel for heat) before being left. All fire rules, regulations, and posted fire regulations need to be followed at all times (regulations may change as the season progresses).
Only use designated fire rings and smoke only in designated areas. Dispose of cigarette butts in proper receptacles and never smoke on trails or in vegetated areas. Hot vehicle parts can ignite vegetation, so avoid parking over grass, and note that residential pile burning is not permitted during fire season. Yosemite residents are required to create and maintain defensible space around their properties for fire season. If you see smoke or flames, make sure to report it immediately by calling 911.
