San Rafael, CA – Several controlled burns are scheduled for June 15 and 16 in San Rafael as part of a seasonal firefighter training and wildfire fuel reduction effort. Marinwood, San Rafael, and Novato community is asked to refrain from calling 911 if they see smoke from the burn area.
The training site sits north of Saint Vincent’s School and east of Hwy 101 in Marinwood. Smoke will be prevalent from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 15 and 16. Fire engines and other fire vehicles will be in the area before and after the prescribed burns.
The prescribed burns, which will amount to about 30 acres, are part of a larger fuels management plan that builds upon work already completed by Marin County Fire Department. The training will involve about 120 personnel, including 80 seasonal firefighters. Trainees will practice hose laying, hand line construction, tactical communications, and other tasks employed during emergencies.
The burn site is surrounded by a combination of fire control lines and dirt roads in place to keep the fire from spreading beyond the training area. Additional firefighters are on hand to support the holding operations.
Due to the extensive rain this season, Fire agencies will take extra precautions with the energy released from heavier fuels. No wind events are predicted for burn days and weather will be checked hourly along with extra hydration of all personnel.
All the burning will be conducted in accordance with the Bay Area Air Quality Management District and with other participating fire agencies in Marin. Organizers will be in contact with the air control district to evaluate smoke dispersal.
Local fire agencies urge residents to learn more about creating a defensible space around their homes and increase the chances of saving lives and property during a wildfire. Learn more with FireSafe Marin.
Learn how to prepare an emergency kit at the Ready Marin.
All are encouraged to register for Alert Marin.