CAL FIRE initiates water conservation efforts

Cal Fire is doing its part to conserve water, taking a number of water-saving measures to meet Gov. Jerry Brown’s recent mandate.

“This historic drought that we’re facing right now is a stark reminder of how precious water resources are in this state,” Jonathan Pangburn, information officer for Cal Fire said.

While the lawns are fading out, drought-resistant plants are being brought in. Residents can stop by the Pebble Beach Fire Department to see its fire safety garden.

“The state of California is doing what it can to remove water-intensive plants,” Pangburn said, “Especially green lawns and things like that as much as possible.”

Reclaimed water is being used whenever possible. Also, fire apparatus and other vehicles aren’t being washed. At one time, they were washed and inspected regularly. Now, just the inspections are being conducted.

Inside, dishwashers and washing machines are being used only when they’re full. Shower times are also being minimized. While Cal Fire doesn’t have a specific target, it is doing everything it can to either meet or exceed Brown’s 25 percent mandated cut.

Firefighters depend on water to put out blazes but for training purposes, the hoses run dry and sand is used to simulate water. While every little bit helps, it’s a drop in the bucket in terms of the four-year drought.

“As far as its effect on wildfire conditions,” Pangburn explained, “It was not enough to really modify it enough, maybe a day or two. The pine needles may have been a little bit wetter than they may have otherwise had been, but it didn’t do too much to impact our incoming fire danger that keeps increasing on a daily basis.”

Fire crews have also inspected faucets, shower heads and pipes to make sure no water is wasted.