Morgan Hill
– A drier-than-normal winter, combined with hot temperatures,
could make for a busy fire season, fire officials say.
Fire officials say there is plenty of dry ‘fuel’ for fires
n By mARILYN DUBIL Staff Writer
Morgan Hill – A drier-than-normal winter, combined with hot temperatures, could make for a busy fire season, fire officials say.
And firefighters have already handled a number of small blazes that have sparked around the South County area in the past month.
In preparation for the season, all fire departments in Santa Clara County participated in a two-day live fire training event last week. The training, which was held at Joseph D. Grant Ranch County Park, was a readiness drill with a focus on training and firefighter safety.
CALFIRE also announced last week the re-opening of the Copernicus Peak lookout, which is located a half mile east of Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton Road. The lookout, which will be staffed with volunteers on an as-needed basis in the event of high winds, high fire danger days, has been closed for 17 years. It was first built in 1938.
The lookout wasn’t needed Monday afternoon as a “well-developed column” of white smoke was clearly visible from CALFIRE headquarters in south Morgan Hill, according to CALFIRE Battalion Chief Derek Witmer.
Firefighters quickly contained the one-acre blaze that was likely the result of a spark from machinery being used in the area to cut back weeds.
“Most of the fires I see in the South County are actually caused by good intentions,” Witmer said. “People are doing the right things, for the right reasons, but at the wrong time.”
Witmer sees many fires started by people who are moving, discing or weed-eating, to get rid of the weeds or create a “defensible space” around a structure, but doing it during the hot time of the day. The best time to do lawn or field maintenance, he said, is early in the morning, when the temperature is cool, the humidity is higher and the winds haven’t gotten blustery yet. Or take care of those chores in the evening, he said, when the temperature drops off and the winds die down.
The type of machinery used may also cause problems, Witmer added.
“I have seen quite a few fires started by riding lawnmowers,” he said.
When mowers designed for lawns are used in fields and pastures, sparks from rocks and rough terrain or overheated engines can swiftly develop into a blaze.
Residents are advised to prepare for the season by taking stock of their residence and surrounding area, making changes as necessary to create less of a fire risk.
“A few weekends spent now, preparing your home and yard, can make a big difference,” Witmer said. “Help us to help you.”
For information about creating a defensible space and making a residence and yard safe, visit the Santa Clara County FireSafe Council Web site at www.SCCFireSafe.org.
Marilyn Dubil covers education and law enforcement for The Times. Reach her at (408) 779-4106 ext. 202 or at md****@*************es.com.
