True or False: California fire season is from May to October?

False! According to the Western Fire Chief Association's in-depth guide, California fire season can be year-round!

While the historic fire season ranges from May to October, the rising temperatures and decreasing rainfall associated with climate change have broadened the spectrum  (see graphic above).

Bonus question: When is the most destructive time of year for fires? 

If you answered the fall months, you're correct! Fall winds can quickly increase the spread of fire and dry out vegetation, leaving it more susceptible to wildfires.

While wildfires are unintentional and uncontrolled, we must be careful not to generalize all fires as scary; fire is a natural phenomenon in California and provides numerous benefits. Our ecosystem depends on periodic fires to maintain ecological balance and prevent the detrimental consequences of large, uncontrolled wildfires.

For centuries, indigenous peoples have recognized and continue to recognize fire as a natural occurrence and tool necessary to clear out organic debris and recycle nutrients in the soil. 

September is "National Preparedness Month." LARPD prepares for high-risk wildfire season by regularly conducting controlled burns in Sycamore Grove Park. These controlled burns also promote ecological diversity, contributing to a more fire-resilient ecosystem.

Managing controlled burns provides valuable training opportunities for LARPD staff, Livermore Pleasanton Fire, and other organizations to further fire prevention knowledge and responsiveness.