FOREST LAKES FIRE DEPARTMENT
Fire Season in Forest Lakes Area
April 2000 Chief Jack Dunn
The twentieth century has gone and the twenty first century has arrived without any major Y2K problems. The biggest problem we are facing at this time on the RIM and throughout the state is extremely dry conditions. We remain under the influence of "La Nina" which means a drier than normal condition and this drying trend will mean a serious wildfire situation for Forest Lakes. With the current information and the lack of any significant precipitation we are preparing for intense wildfire conditions and we need your help.
The heavy monsoon season in 1999 resulted in heavy grass growth, which has now become extremely dry fuel. Also the lack of moisture has placed the trees in a stressful situation, which means they will ignite extremely fast.
With all of these factors in mind you should try to eliminate all of the needles and undergrowth, trim heavy growth and trees near your home. Check roof and gutter areas for piled up needles and remove them.
As this dry trend continues, individuals should:
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Plan preliminary evacuation procedures and ensure that you and your family will not be caught on a one way in, one way out road system.
- Monitor the fire danger conditions regularly.
 When you enter the subdivision and the Red Flags are up that means there will be
No Burning - No Open flames due to extremely dry or windy conditions. If you see someone burning or smoking please call the Fire Department immediately. This also includes No Charcoal Fires. You may cook with enclosed gas
grills.
We also have a Red Flag at the Fire Station on the flagpole when we are in
Red Flag conditions. There is also a warning board at the station that tells you what the conditions are in our area.
Please advise anyone visiting or using your home of this information.
A factor that has an effect on the fire danger is the temperature, as it gets warmer the fire danger will increase.
The amount of rainfall also has an effect. We all need to keep a watchful eye on these factors and monitor the fire danger signs.
Humans start most wildfires. Fire prevention is everyone's responsibility.
Volunteers needed! The purpose of this department is to provide fire protection, fire prevention and emergency medical treatment to the residents and visitors of the Forest Lakes area. This is accomplished largely through volunteers like you who are on call when needed. Our unique remote area in the forest makes it imperative for us to take care of our neighbors and ourselves. Please contact the Fire Department if you want to help.
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