Ventura County says fire season is done

Ventura County Fire Department officially closed its 2002 Fire Season on Dec. 4. The combination of recent precipitation and predicted weather patterns indicates the potential for major fires has passed. The closure of fire season will change schedules for certain resources, curtail seasonal employment and reduce initial responses to reports of brush and grass fires. This action follows similar moves by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

Equipment response levels will be reduced from five engines, handcrew, bulldozer, and helicopter, to a one- or two-engine response governed by geographical location and current weather conditions. Should fire conditions prevail after the close of fire season, response readiness can be raised to a level deemed appropriate by the conditions.

Ventura County residents are reminded of the volatility of Southern California weather and are encouraged to continue following appropriate fire safety guidelines for the home and in the wilderness. Contact your local fire station for fire safety literature.