Wishing you a glorious and sparkling Fourth of July!

Worsening fire conditions brought on by the lack of rain.
The high temperatures, low humidity, five years of drought and a lack of recent rain have created the worst fire conditions on record in California. "We are in an unprecedented, very serious situation that people should pause and reflect on how dependent we are on the rain, nature and one other.

California is facing wildfires! California’s wildfire season usually peaks during summer and fall months and then tapers during the typically rainy winter. But the drought has turned wildfires into a year-round issue.

The Fire Season in Southern California is Here.
Brush fires have already started in some areas. While winds have pick up, the heat and the single digit humidity are already here. Preparation is the only thing that can help you. 

Here are 10 ways to help prepare you and your family in case of fire.

Check your smoke alarms - Make sure you have an alarm on each floor of your home and located in each bedroom. Check batteries regularly and replace batteries every year.
Register your mobile phones with an alert system -Alert LA County  Alert L.A. You will receive a call in the event of an emergency in your area and be given instructions as to what you should do. Many of us received calls a few years ago and were told when to evacuate and where to go.
Have fire extinguishers - Make sure to have a fire extinguisher. Check frequently to make sure they have not expired. Know how to operate them.
Replace wood shake roofs - This is a must as they are very flammable. It is expensive but could save your home in the long run.
Have an escape route for your family - Every family should have an emergency plan and escape route with clear instructions. Have a meeting place in case all family members are not home.
Install an interior sprinkler system - The newer systems can sense where the fire is and only come on in that particular room.
Create a 100 foot defensible space around your home - This is especially true if you live next to open space, canyons, etc.
Plant fire resistant plants by your home - Try iceplant which has a high moisture content or any other plants that hold moisture.
Keep flammables away from your home - Store wood away from your home as well as gasoline tanks, propane tanks, gas barbecue grills, etc.
Clean your roof and gutters - Make sure debris is not sitting on your roof and gutters because it makes great fire starters for any embers that may fall on them.
Most of all, remember, things can be replaced, YOU CAN'T! Get Out and Get Your Family Out Safely! The rest is just STUFF!