Fire activity has increased around the region as we push further into our locally declared fire season in Santa Rosa. Favorable weather conditions and our responses to the fires have allowed for quick containments. Most of these fires were human caused and could have been prevented had appropriate measures been taken.  The “One Less Spark—One Less Wildfire” campaign is designed to provide constant reminders during this fire season to reduce the number of vehicle and equipment caused fires throughout our community and across the state. By reviewing the following information and taking these important steps, you can do your part to keep Santa Rosa safer: 

Equipment Safety 

• Mow before 10 A.M, but never when it’s windy or excessively dry.
• Lawn mowers are designed to mow lawns, not weeds or dry grass.
• Metal blades striking rocks can create sparks and start fires.
• Spark arresters are needed on all portable gasoline-powered equipment including tractors, chainsaws, weed eaters, and mowers. This device will help prevent the emission of flammable debris from combustion sources and create an unwanted fire. 
• Keep a fire extinguisher, a shovel, and a cellphone nearby to be able to act quickly in the event that a spark causes a fire.
• Create a maintenance schedule for all equipment to ensure that it is working properly and to prevent carbon from building up.

Practicing Vehicle Safety

Motorists are responsible for many of the wildfires sparked along roadways. Nearly all these fire starts could be prevented by following these safety measures: 

• Practice safe towing by ensuring your chains are not dragging. Ensure the chain is safely secured using safety pins and the hitch ball  to avoid a spark.
• Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and nothing is dragging on the ground.
• Don’t drive your vehicle onto dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can start fires that you may not see until it’s too late.
• Carry a fire extinguisher in your vehicle and learn how to use it.
• Maintain proper tire pressure. Driving on exposed wheel rims will throw sparks. 

Visit srcity.org/WildfireReady and go to the Resource Library where you’ll find more information on the "One Less Spark" campaign. Remember One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire. You an also fine more preparedness information at srcity.org/ReadySR.