Posted on: December 6, 2017

The Monterey Park Fire Department would like to ensure all residents remain safe during these periods of Santa Ana wind conditions or what is referred to as Red Flag Warnings. As we have seen in Northern California and most recently right here in Southern California, wind conditions along with low humidity can create catastrophic fire conditions. Weather conditions here in Monterey Park are expected to remain warm for the entire week with temperatures reaching the 80s by the coming weekend. Wind gusts are expected as well. Please adhere to the following safety guidelines:

1. Equipment Use Safety

Never mow or trim grass on a Red Flag Warning Day

Never use lawn mowers in dry vegetation

Spark arresters are required in wild land areas on all portable gasoline powered equipment.

2. Campfire Safety

Before starting a campfire, make sure you have a campfire permit and that they are permitted on the land you are visiting

Afterwards, ensure that your campfire is properly extinguished.

3. Defensible Space

Make sure there is 100 feet of defensible space around structures

Clear dead weeds and vegetation

Remove leaves and needles from gutters

Trim branches 6 feet from the ground.

4. Vehicle

Never pull over in dry grass

Ensure trailer chains don’t drag on ground

Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained

Have proper tire pressure to avoid driving on wheel rim

Never let your brake pads wear too thin.

5. Other

Make sure cigarette butts are properly extinguished

Never burn landscape debris

Report any suspicious activities to prevent arson.

Due to the many fires currently burning across southern California, Monterey Park Fire Units are currently dispatched to assist with containment efforts. We have two engine companies deployed in the Ventura area and we have initiated mandatory call back for personnel to ensure the city is adequately staffed. With the weather conditions expected to continue through the weekend, we are currently staffing one additional engine company as a necessary precaution and will patrol areas that have high fire potential.

If you have family members that live in the affected areas and have been forced to evacuate, please visit the City of Monterey Park website at www.montereypark.ca.gov/ for a list of evacuation centers in Los Angeles County or visit the Los Angeles Fire Department website at www.lafd.org/news.