Sacramento – With great weather expected across most of the Golden State this holiday weekend, CAL FIRE urges everyone to use caution as fire danger remains higher than normal due to the drought. Memorial Day weekend is often said to be the official start of summer with everyone enjoying outdoor activities and recreation during the three-day break. “While we hope everyone has an enjoyable holiday, we also want it to be a safe one,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, CAL FIRE director. “The dry conditions throughout the state have created a situation where a fire could easily spark, so we ask everyone to be cautious as they enjoy their time outdoors.” So far this year, CAL FIRE has seen almost twice as many wildfires than average and the peak of summer is still to come. In the midst of this severe drought, everyone is encouraged to be vigilant and remember that One Less Spark means One Less Wildfire. Camping: · Obtain a campfire permit (www.PreventWildfireCA.org) · Check for local fire restrictions · Clear away grass, leaves and other debris within a 10-foot perimeter of any campfire · Have a responsible person in attendance at all times · Ensure all campfires are completely extinguished before leaving · When barbequing, never leave the grill unattended Vehicle · Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained with nothing dragging on the ground · When towing, make sure trailer chains are properly secured · Never drive or pull over into dry grass Fire is not the only danger that can occur in the outdoors, as water drownings also increase dramatically during this holiday weekend. Warm temperatures make the cool waters of California’s beautiful rivers and lakes very enticing, yet very dangerous. In the Water: - Always wear a life jacket! - Children should always be supervised by a responsible adult - Never swim alone - Drinking and swimming can be just as dangerous as drinking and driving For more ways to be safe this holiday, visit www.ReadyforWildfire.org or www.fire.ca.gov # # #