County fire season comes to a close

After responding to 28 wildfires in 2006, the Ventura County Fire Department officially closed the fire season Jan. 15.

The forecast weather patterns have reduced the potential for major wildland fires in the area. Fire season opened on June 7 last year and normally runs until November.

Work schedules for certain firefighting resources and response levels to grass and brush fires will change with the end of fire season. Equipment response levels will be reduced to one or two engines on a wildland fire depending on the location and weather conditions. An 18person handcrew, three bulldozers and helicopters are available, and response levels can be increased as needed.

Even though the fire danger has lessened, wildland fires can occur at any time during the year in Southern California due to changing weather patterns. Ventura County residents are encouraged to follow fire-safe practices at home and in wilderness areas, such as replacing combustible growth with fire-retardant plants.

For more information, visit www.fire.countyofventura.org.