Residents near Saklan Ridge in the Rossmoor area can expect light smoke this coming Saturday, as the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District has announced plans for a controlled burn. In collaboration with the Moraga-Orinda Fire District, the exercise is set to take place as a part of the Lafayette-Walnut Creek Shaded Fuel Break project, which is designed to reduce the risks of wildfires in the region by eliminating hazardous fuel loads and invasive plant species.
According to a social media post from the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, the prescribed burn will cover an eight-acre area and run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. While the fire is intended to bolster defenses against potential Red Flag weather events, some residents are expected to notice smoke during these operations. Those with sensitivities to smoke are advised to keep their windows and doors shut and to limit their time spent outdoors for the duration of the prescribed burn.
The fire district clarifies that there is no need to call 911 in response to the smoke within the designated burn area. Their crews will be on scene, actively monitoring and managing the fire. However, the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District urges the public to remain vigilant: "If you see smoke or fire outside the planned area, or if something doesn’t look right, please call 911 immediately." This measure ensures that any unexpected fires can be addressed promptly, thus safeguarding the community and its surrounding environment.
