Fireworks, equipment use spark recent fires
Authorities in Tuolumne County are reminding the public about rules regarding fire safety after determining the causes of two recent blazes to be from equipment use and illegal fireworks.
The Sonora Police Department put out a statement Wednesday morning that announced fireworks ignited a small fire Friday evening near Sonora Elementary School that burned about an eighth of an acre.
All fireworks are illegal within the City of Sonora and Tuolumne County, the police department warned. Calaveras County allows the use of fireworks labeled as “safe and sane,” though a temporary ban was put in place last year due to heightened fire concerns.
An investigation into who set off the fireworks that sparked the blaze near the school was still ongoing as of Wednesday morning, Sonora Police said. Anyone with information is asked to contact the department.
The department also reminded people that fire season is already underway, and most fires are avoidable.
“Check vehicles for dragging parts or trailer chains, do not pull over into tall grass. Do yard work in the early mornings with appropriate tools that prevent sparks and have a water source and a shovel. Make sure that combustible material is away from your home and create defensible space. Be prepared and ready to evacuate,” the department stated.
Also on Wednesday, the Cal Fire TuolumneCalaveras Unit said it issued a citation for three violations after an investigation determined that equipment use started a blaze the previous afternoon near J59 and Highway 108 in the western part of Tuolumne County.
The fire burned at least 5 acres before being put out by firefighters, the unit reported.
“This fire … could and should have been prevented,” the unit said in a statement.
Equipment use is among the top three causes of vegetation fires within the unit, along with debris burning and vehicles. The agency offered the following tips to prevent fires while using equipment:
tor is installed on gas-powered equipment;
• Use the correct tool for the job, such as string trimmer, lawn mower, or riding mower; • Use equipment before 10 a.m.;
• Clear any rocks from the work area. “We encourage you to spread the word about these simple guidelines, and keep them a part of your and your neighbors’ common sense tool box,” the unit stated.
For more fire safety tips, go to www.readyforwildfire.org.