With record low rainfall increasing the risk of wildfires statewide, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared May 6-12 Wildfire Awareness Week. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) will host public events throughout the state to educate Californians about wildfire safety and preparedness.

"It is critical that homeowners take the time now to protect their homes from wildfires," said Chief Ruben Grijalva, CAL FIRE director. "We are making a significant effort to ensure that Californian's in at-risk areas know that state law and the safety of their property requires them to create 100 feet of defensible space around their homes, and we are going to show them how to meet that requirement effectively."

The week will kick-off with a major event on the West steps of the State Capitol Monday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. immediately following the kick-off event; the CAL FIRE Wildfire Awareness Week Team will hit the road to host similar events throughout the State all week. Firefighters will be on-hand to answer questions from the public about fire safe landscaping and general fire safety. In addition to the education and demonstrations, CAL FIRE has teamed up with local outfits to provide homeowners a chance to win free yard tools to help create defensible space around their homes.

Wildfire Awareness Tour schedule:

* Monday, May 7: Sacramento, State Capitol, West steps Cameron Park, 3200 Country Club Drive
* Tuesday, May 8: Redding, Sunset Marketplace, 3685 Eureka Way
* Wednesday, May 9: Fresno, Millerton Lake State Park, 5290 Millerton Rd., Friant
* Friday, May 11: San Diego, CAL FIRE Headquarters, 2249 Jamacha Rd, El Cajon
* Saturday, May12 - Riverside, Hemet Air Attack Base, 4710 West Stetson Ave, Hemet

The Wildfire Awareness Week events will also introduce the public to the department's new moniker, CAL FIRE, which reflects the breadth of the Department's responsibilities from wildland firefighting to hazardous materials calls to medical aides and beyond. Some of CAL FIRE's newest engines and equipment will be on hand at each event.

For more information on the events, visit www.fire.ca.gov .

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CAL FIRE kicks off fire season
Unveils New Identity as CAL FIRE
By: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
Published: May 3, 2007 at 08:48

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