LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Despite the recent low temperatures and scattered precipitation throughout the region; open burning restrictions remain in effect in the State Responsibility Area, Cal Fire reported.

Cal Fire said its Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit remains well within fire season and is expected to remain as such for the foreseeable future.

Fire fuels conditions remain at a level adequate to support the potential for extreme fire behavior. Cal Fire said the recent moderation in weather conditions is not adequate to prevent the continued threat to public safety from catastrophic wildfire.

October and November have traditionally been the most destructive months for wildland fire in the Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit, the agency reported.

Cal Fire continually monitors weather conditions and associated fire danger, and will lift the burn suspension when conditions become appropriate for the use of open burning.

Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit Chief Shana Jones encourages residents to remain mindful that one spark is all that is required to start a wildland fire.

Cal Fire asks the community to follow these tips to prevent wildfire:

– Cease use of outdoor power equipment by 10 a.m., not during the heat of the day, or when the wind is blowing.
– Mowers are designed to mow lawns, not dry vegetation.
– Use a weed trimmer with a string line to cut down dry weeds and grass.
– Make sure ashes from wood stoves are “dead out” before dumping.

For more information on preparing for and preventing wildfires, visit the Cal Fire Web site www.readyforwildfire.org or call your local Cal Fire facility.