Tamarask Tree Fire Ignites ‘Wildfire Awareness Week’

A Tamarisk tree fire broke out along the westbound Dillion Road on-ramp to the I-10 in Indio, last night.

Fortunately, it didn’t affect traffic, and firefighters had it out in less than 40 minutes.

Nonetheless, it was a little wake-up call.

California’s fire season is considered to be year-round, yet with temperatures starting to climb, Cal Fire is using this week to heighten awareness that historically wildfire activity increases from spring through late fall.

Homeowners are being reminded to give firefighters a defensible space around their homes. One hundred feet is recommended.

It’s also not a bad idea to clear away any vegetation between trees to reduce the potential spread of flames.

Proper clearance dramatically increases the chance of your house surviving a brush or wildfire.

Cal Fire officials plan to host news conferences about wildfire dangers throughout the state this week.

It also doesn’t hurt if your home was built with fire resistant materials.

Cal Fire has set up a website with tips on how to protect your home. You can go to here.