While the blast of summer heat has most people basking in the sun, unfortunately, in the past week our FD has responded to over 18 “grass and brush” fires throughout our rural communities! With the recent hot spell, has come dry vegetation that can fuel fires that burn and spread quickly. 
I'll admit, it's exciting, yet a tense time when you see a smoky brush and grass fire around here, gets the adrenalin pumping in the guys. After weeks of very little rain and the hot temps... fields, surrounding bushes and vegetation along side the highways are like kindling ready to go up in smoke!
I really thought these past few shifts would never come to an end. Seriously folks, crush those smokes and be careful with outdoor burning! Fire destruction is one man's job, fire prevention is everybody's job.
It is also important to take into consideration some landscaping and home maintenance tips to ensure safe surroundings this summer.
- Remove weeds and keep grass cut.
- Provide adequate water to keep plants and grass healthy and green.
- Any dead and piled up vegetation should be disposed of properly.
- If you have any firewood left over from the winter, stack it away from structures.
- Never leave dry leaves in rain gutters or dead branches on plants near the house or on the ground within a few feet of the house.
- Try not to place plants/shrubs too close to structures and under overhangs or eaves.
- Trash and debris should be disposed of properly.
- Store flammable liquids properly.
- Always dispose of your cigarettes in ashtrays.
- Safely dispose of barbecue ashes.
- Buy a fire extinguisher for outdoor use! Summer puts us outside on the patio or at the pool more often than any other season. Having a fire extinguisher outdoors is a great idea, especially if your family is known to cook outdoors during the summer. A fire extinguisher can be more reliable than a water hose and is also easier to handle and access during an emergency. Be sure that everyone who lives at the house is aware of where the outdoor fire extinguisher is and how to use it.
- And of course...
