Firefighters: Cut down fire danger by cutting weeds, tall grass

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- Firefighters across Merced County are working to cut down on a major fire danger that's even higher this year because of the drought.

Fire officials say properties like this one are a disaster waiting to happen. They've sent out notices to thousands of residents reminding them to get rid of weeds and tall, dry grass before it becomes fuel for a fire.

The fires that destroyed dozens of homes across San Diego County last week showed just how dangerous conditions are across the state this year.

"There's a correlation without a doubt. Our crews just got back last night from being down there, and it is a hazard. It's scary especially with the drought conditions," said Merced Fire Inspector Tracy Staiger.

A lot of the vegetation across Merced is drying out now, but it also grew quickly because of showers in late April and early May. That's why city and county firefighters are urging residents to reduce the fire risk by cutting down any weeds or tall grass.

"The firemen surveyed the whole city, then on the 13th of May we sent out notices, and that gives the homeowners and property owners two weeks to clean up the properties," said Staiger.

Staiger says a vacant lot on 13th near G has been a problem spot for years. She's especially concerned because it sits between two homes and near a large apartment complex. In the past, crews have used city funds to clean it up and then put a lien on the property.

"Unfortunately, city funds are drying up also, so that's why we're really gearing toward trying to get people to work on it and then administrative citations," said Staiger.

Repeat offenders can face hundreds of dollars in fines, but officials say their goal is to use education and outreach, and save penalties as a last resort.

Merced County's deadline for weed abatement just passed on May 18, and the city of Merced's deadline is on May 27.