Monthly Report from the Chief


KENSINGTON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT MEMORANDUM

May 2018
TO: President and Board Members, Kensington Fire Protection District
FROM: Lance Maples, Fire Chief
SUBJECT: Fire Chief's Report


Vegetation Management Season 2018

Even though March storms tripled California's snowpack, the State is still below average annual rainfall. With that being said, California's fire season never really ended in 2017. The El Cerrito-Kensington Fire Department responded to wildfires beginning in late spring through late December in 2017.

In an effort to keep our community of Kensington as safe as possible, this year's vegetation management inspections started in early May. Fire Prevention Officer, Joe Gagne, will be driving and inspecting on every street of the community and will also be responding to any citizen concerns about overgrown, fire-hazard vegetation. FPO Gagne will then send out notices to properties that are not in compliance. Those properties that do not comply, will be brought to the Board at the July 2018 meeting.

As your Fire Chief, I would like to point out the following vegetation management tips as a reminder regarding fire safety during this fire season and to ensure that your property complies with the Kensington Vegetation Management Standards.

  • Trim trees up from the ground and remove dead and dying branches, loose and papery bark, and fallen branches.

  • Cut trees 10 feet back from chimney openings.

  • Install a spark arrestor on all chimneys and stovepipes.

  • Keep roofs and decks free of leaves, needles, twigs or other dead vegetation.

  • Fire resistive plants and shrubs are recommended.

  • All abatement of hazards must be maintained throughout fire season.


    • These very simple tips will make you, your family and our community much safer as we head into a very dangerous fire season. Stay safe out there.