One less spark means one less wildfire this summer

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August 2025

New CAL FIRE Hawks Take Flight Against Wildfires

Last month, CAL FIRE added two more Sikorsky S-70i FIREHAWK helicopters to its fleet, bringing the total to 16. These versatile aircraft are key to rapid wildfire response, capable of deploying a 9-person Helitack Crew and dropping water. CAL FIRE Hawks also support rescue missions, cargo transport, mapping, and medical evacuations—enhancing our ability to protect communities and natural resources across California.

CAL FIRE HAWK FACT SHEET

Turning Waste to Biochar in Napa County Communities

Instead of importing biochar, the Sonoma Ecology Center and A Plus Tree brought a mobile pyrolysis system to Napa County—turning local wood debris into carbon-rich biochar on site. This material boosts soil health and water retention and is already being used in tree care and community gardens. Funded by CAL FIRE’s Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program, the project supports greener, more sustainable communities across California.

LEARN MORE ABOUT URBAN & COMMUNITY FORESTRY

A Hidden Line of Defense: How Shaded Fuel Breaks Slow Wildfires

Novato Fire, Marin County Parks, and Marin Wildfire are creating a 60-mile shaded fuel break to protect North Bay communities from wildfire. Funded by CAL FIRE and local taxes, this 3,400-acre project improves forest health, restores native plants, and safeguards homes—smart, lasting wildfire prevention in action. Click the link below to learn more about this and hundreds of other fuels reduction projects across the state.

FUELS REDUCTION VIEWER

One Small Spark, One Big Fire: How to Prevent Everyday Ignitions

One spark can destroy thousands of acres. Your daily choices matter. Let’s stop wildfires before they start.

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What is a Red Flag Warning?

Whether you live in a fire-prone area or not, understanding what a Red Flag Warning means can help protect you, your community, and our firefighters on the front lines.

VIEW CURRENT WARNINGS

Shoot Safe, Prevent the Blaze

When using firearms outdoors, especially in dry, wildfire-prone areas, always ensure ammunition and targets do not generate sparks. Responsible shooting practices help prevent wildfires and protect natural resources, wildlife, and communities.

SAFE SHOOTING TIPS

Your Ride, Your Responsibility: Keep It Fire-Safe

Off-road vehicles can spark wildfires if not used responsibly. Stay on designated trails, avoid dry grass. Carry a fire extinguisher and avoid idling over vegetation

SAFE OHV USAGE TIPS

The Tech Helping CAL FIRE Save Lives

CAL FIRE honored with Making a Difference Award demonstrating how geospatial mapping technology is making a difference.

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CAL FIRE Awards $4.7M to Tribal Wildfire Resilience Efforts

The grants will support workforce training, fuel reduction, and cultural burning

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Join Us; We're Hiring All-Risk Paramedics

Ready to take the next step in your firefighting career? Join CAL FIRE as a Fire Apparatus Engineer (Paramedic)! Fire Apparatus Engineers don’t just fight wildland and structure fires – they also save lives through medical intervention. Don’t wait! Applications are processed in rounds, with the next cutoff date being September 4, 2025.

Join CAL FIRE

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