SAN DIEGO–The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department have increased the number of on-duty firefighting crews, staff and fire apparatus in the San Diego region because of the hot weather forecasted.
Several years of drought coupled with heavy rains this past winter created significant fuel in the form of underbrush and grass. This fuel, combined with hot temperatures and low humidity, create conditions which are conducive to easily ignited and fast burning wildfires.
Five brush engines, each with a crew of four personnel, and one water tender will be staffed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Brush engines are large off-road capable fire apparatus which carry between 600 and 1500 gallons of water. The fire department water tenders carry 3000 gallons of water and provide water supply to engines at vegetation fires. In addition, the Metro Zone Emergency Command and Data Center (ECDC) and Air Operations Section staffing will also be increased.
“Increasing our staffing is something that we can do in an effort to respond quickly with additional resources to keep fires from threatening lives and property,” said Fire Chief Brian Fennessy. “There are many things residents can do to prepare in advance for what we believe will be a very busy summer of fires.”
For resources on wildfire protection, visit https://www.sandiego.gov/fire/safety/tips/readysetgo
