Cal Fire, Modesto fire officials offer safety tips as summer activities heat up

Forecasters say summer weather appears to be returning to the Modesto area later this week, but firefighters say dry grass and other vegetation make the region look like it’s already July.

Even though it’s been unseasonably cool recently, drought conditions persist in the Northern San Joaquin Valley and throughout the state, generating plenty of dry vegetation to fuel a wildfire.

“Fuel moisture is pretty low, and it doesn’t take that much to start a fire and have it take off on you,” said Battalion Chief Hugo Patino of the Modesto Fire Department.

Campfires and backyard grilling are just some of the more common outdoor summer activities, but that kind of fun could result in serious injuries, burned homes or raging wildfires if not done properly. State and local fire officials are urging residents to be cautious this summer.

So far this year, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has responded to almost twice as many wildfires as average.

“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,” said Cal Fire Director Chief Ken Pimlott in a news release.

In the midst of this severe drought, Cal Fire officials encourage everyone to be vigilant, and remember that one less spark means one less wildfire.

Modesto fire officials say each season brings its own specific risks, but simple precautions can help prevent burn injuries and house fires that can devastate families.

Patino said they occasionally receive calls for help after mechanical problems on gas grills cause fires. There have been some people who have thrown burning charcoal into the garbage, starting fires that burn down fences and threaten homes.

And you have to be careful with children around a hot grill. That’s hot metal, and some small children don’t understand is dangerous until it’s too late, Patino said. “It’s just common sense about being careful around hot items like that.”

This story was originally published May 26, 2015 at 1:34 PM with the headline "Cal Fire, Modesto fire officials offer safety tips as summer activities heat up."