South Tahoe Fire Rescue (STFR) is implementing the “Red Flag” program for a third year to help inform and educate our citizens on when the weather adds to our existing fire danger. Fire Crews monitor the weather service and when the weather reaches a red flag warning, STFR will implement the following procedures.
• STFR will raise a RED FLAG at each fire station to inform the public.
• STFR will add extra personnel to staff a Type 3 (Brush) engine for an aggressive fire attack. The staffed engine will have a Red Flag Banner to help alert the community. The Banner will say “Red Flag Day- Critical Fire Weather”.
When citizens see these indicators of the additional fire danger within our community they should be especially mindful of the following:
1) Avoid outdoor burning, such campfires, or any other open flame. Even grilling is not advised, when Red Flag Days exist.
2) Dispose of cigarettes and other smoking materials into fire safe containers. Tossing smoldering cigarettes onto the ground should be avoided.
3) Properly store flammable materials such as gasoline, alcohol, paint, lighter, and matches. These materials may reach their critical points during hot weather and can possibly result to fire.
4) Be extremely careful when using and fueling chainsaws, lawn mowers, weed eaters and other lawn care equipment. High heat conditions make ignition of the fuel vapors more likely. Find shade if possible and allow the machinery to cool if it has been running. Also avoid welding in dangerously dry conditions, as the sparks can easily ignite the dry vegetation around you.
5) Be careful where you park your vehicles. The hot underside of a car or truck filled with gasoline parked over dead grass or leaves is an explosion waiting to happen. Be sure to park on concrete or solid dirt or gravel, especially during Red Flag Days. Do not park where vegetation touches the vehicle.