CAL FIRE moving to winter staffing levels

San Bernardino – The CAL FIRE San Bernardino Unit will transition to winter staffing levels beginning Monday, November 21, 2011. The recent rains, mild weather and cooler temperatures have combined to reduce the threat of wildland fires. This allows CAL FIRE to reduce resources from the peak staffing levels for the high fire hazard months of summer and fall.

Seasonal firefighter layoffs will be completed by Monday, November 21, 2011. One CAL FIRE engine will remain staffed and will be located in the Owens Valley. While the other San Bernardino Unit engines will be undergoing winter maintenance, they will be able to be quickly put into service if necessary. Helicopter 305 will be available on an as needed basis. Fire crews will continue to be able to respond to emergencies if needed throughout the winter months.

Not only is this time used for maintenance of equipment, fire engines, aircraft, but for firefighter training in preparation for the high fire hazard months of 2012. . “Our ability to expand or reduce staffing levels and equipment operations to correspond with the fire hazard threat allows CAL FIRE to operate more economically and efficiently” Said Unit Chief Tim McClelland.

CAL FIRE maintains 5,000 full time trained firefighters statewide with the ability to respond to all-risk situations year round. It is important to remember that the threat of wildland fire is not gone. Careless or intentional acts can still ignite a vegetation fire. Cal FIRE needs You to continue to be fire safe. Remember to observe all fire rules and regulations in whatever you do in the wildland. “Even a small vegetation fire can be dangerous and destructive” says Preston Fouts, CAL FIRE San Bernardino Unit Fire Prevention Battalion Chief.

CAL FIRE wants to commend the public for their increased awareness and participation in fire prevention and fire hazard reduction.