Community risk reduction is about everyday actions that reduce the likelihood that a small fire will become a larger one. Safe burn pile practices are among the simplest ways to reduce wildfire risk in Lassen County and in our other Northeastern CA counties and to help protect homes, neighbors, and first responders. Taking a few extra steps before, during, and after burning makes a real difference.
In Lassen, Shasta, and all our Northeastern CA counties, many homes are situated in open, forested, or brush-covered areas where fire can spread quickly once started. Burn piles are a common and useful tool for managing vegetation, but they are also a main cause of escaped fires in rural communities. As part of Community Risk Reduction Week, we’re sharing this short CAL FIRE burn pile safety PSA to highlight simple steps that help prevent burn piles from becoming dangerous.
A Critical Reminder for Our Area
Before You Burn
- Burning piles of dead vegetation can help reduce fire risk, but it is not always safe. Fire danger can change during the year, and burning may not be allowed at all times.
- Before you burn in Lassen County, always check with the local CAL FIRE unit and the Lassen County Air Pollution Control District (https://www.lassenair.org/) to make sure burning is allowed that day.
- Even if Lassen County is listed as “burning allowed,” you must still confirm that it is a permissive burn day
Burn Pile Safety Rules
Follow these steps every time you burn:
- Check the Weather
- Weather conditions can change quickly, even in winter. Always burn on calm days and watch for shifting winds.
- Confirm Burning Is Legal
- Burn restrictions and permit requirements vary by day and location. Always confirm that burning is allowed before lighting a pile.
- Burn Vegetation Only
- Burn piles should contain only natural vegetation. Trash, construction debris, and treated or painted wood create additional hazards and are not allowed.
- Keep Piles Small
- Smaller piles are easier to manage, easier to extinguish, and less likely to produce drifting embers.
- Keep Flammable Materials Away
- Clear the area around the pile to bare soil and keep piles well away from structures, fences, trees, and equipment.
- Keep Water and Tools Nearby
- Have water, a shovel, rake, or hose ready before lighting the pile.
- Have a Responsible Adult Present at All Times
- Never leave a burn pile unattended, even after flames appear to be out.
- Reduce Smoke: Burning wet material or large piles creates heavy smoke that can affect neighbors and air quality.
- To reduce smoke:
- Burn only dry vegetation
- Burn small piles
- Burn between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., when smoke clears more easily
- To reduce smoke:
Burn piles remain a hazard even after flames die out. Ashes can stay hot for days and might re-ignite if not completely extinguished.
Always:
- Drown the pile thoroughly with water
- Stir the ashes
- Drown it again
- Check the pile later the same day and again the next day
IF IT FEELS WARM TO THE TOUCH, IT’S NOT OUT.
