Bay Area agencies increase staffing as fire season arrives – NBC Bay Area

Monday marked the start of fire season, according to a Cal Fire unit based in Santa Rosa.

The statement comes as fire risk is rapidly increasing in the Bay Area as the region becomes increasingly hot and dry.

Bay Area firefighters have been very active lately, battling several brush fires this month, including a 14,000-acre “corral fire” near Tracy and a fire in Pittsburg on Sunday.

Cal Fire Santa Clara said it and other agencies across the state implemented full seasonal staffing for firefighters and equipment Monday.

NBC Bay Area consumer researcher Chris Chmura explains how to pack a “Go Bag” so you're prepared when disaster strikes.

Meanwhile, the San Jose Fire Department announced Monday that it plans to step up its crackdown on illegal fireworks as the Fourth of July approaches.

Cal Fire and other agencies also encourage homeowners to clear space around their buildings, adding that it is one of the best solutions to making their home immediately safer.

Bay Area fire season is off to a great start and now is the time to prepare your homes and yards. NBC Bay Area's Raj Mathai spoke with Chelsea Burkett, fire protection specialist at Cal Fire, to get an overview of this year's fire season.