Be Firewise when in this region

With wildfire season now underway and expected to continue through October or November, officials in California’s Southern Sierra region are urging residents and visitors to take personal responsibility in protecting communities, public lands and iconic destinations like Yosemite National Park.

The Be Firewise campaign, led by regional partners in fire prevention, tourism and public safety, offers essential guidance through an easily accessible website, www.BeFirewise.org

The site features short videos, educational blog posts and practical tips for preventing wildfires while staying and recreating in forests, parks and rural communities.

“It only takes one spark to start a devastating wildfire,” said Rhonda Salisbury, CEO of Visit Yosemite Madera County.

“Whether you’re hiking, camping or simply driving through we need everyone to be fire-wise. It’s not just about safety — it’s about preserving these beautiful places for generations to come.”

The Be Firewise campaign encourages simple but critical actions including,

• Secure chains properly when towing; bouncing chains can spark nearby vegetation.

• Avoid parking on dry grass, which can ignite easily when a hot exhaust pipe is nearby.

• No fireworks or open flames in prohibited areas.

• Never leave campfires unattended, build fires only in approved areas and extinguish them completely before leaving.

• Properly dispose of cigarettes and trash.

• Stay up to date on local fire restrictions and Red Flag Warnings.

With fire danger heightened by dry vegetation, windy conditions and increased visitation in the Sierra Nevada, personal awareness and prevention are more important than every.

The campaign is especially relevant for visitors traveling through Yosemite’s Southern Gateway where towns like Oakhurst, Coarsegold, North Fork and Bass Lake are surrounded by fire prone landscapes.

The campaign partnership utilizes educational videos featuring beloved local mascots to promote fire prevention in the Sierra Nevada mountains across recreational, vacation and residential settings.

Humans are responsible for 90 percent of wildfires in the United States, causing community devastation and unnecessary burning of natural areas.

Tourism partners, lodging providers and local businesses are encouraged to share campaign information with their guests and employees to help spread wildfire awareness through digital signage, newsletters and front desk conversations.

Following these guidelines and tips can drastically reduce the number of human-caused wildfires. For more information and access to free wildfire prevention resources, visit www.Be- Firewise.org