Placer County Ramps Up Fire Awareness Messaging through New Red Flag Warning Awareness Program

AUBURN, CA (MPG) - Placer County is ramping up their fire preparedness messaging through their new Red Flag Warning Awareness Program. 

The program, in partnership with CAL FIRE / Placer County Fire Department and local fire districts, will have participants display red flags on red flag warning days, in conjunction with an information campaign on what red flag warnings mean for county fire agencies and residents.

“Our agency and partnering fire districts stand prepared for wildfire season here in Placer County,” said CAL FIRE / Placer County Fire Chief Brian Estes. “This program is intended to encourage our communities to do their part by recognizing red flag warnings and understanding the actions to take under the warnings.”

A red flag warning is issued for weather events that may result in extreme fire behavior that will occur within 24 hours and could exist in the following 12-72 hours. It is the highest fire alert. During warnings, officials urge high alert and caution for all residents, because a simple spark can cause a major wildfire during high fire season and especially while the warnings are in effect. 

Participating fire agencies will place the flags in visible locations during the cycle of the red flag warning. The flag placements will be in conjunction with the corresponding educational webpage at www.placer.ca.gov/redflagprogram. Residents will find a checklist on the webpage for actions they should take to ensure they are ready for wildfire. 

“This program is another example of Placer County’s commitment to educating residents on wildfire preparedness,” said Placer County Office of Emergency Services Assistant Director Holly Powers. “As part of the larger collective Ready Placer effort among county partners, we are continuously looking for ways to work together to help ensure Placer residents are ready for emergencies.”

What residents should do when a red flag warning is issued is “SIMPLE,” which stands for:

• Sign up for Placer Alert
• Include a “go bag” in your plan
• Monitor local first responders’ social accounts
• Prepare for quick evacuation
• Learn wildfire safety tips
• Ensure they have a full tank of gas