The greatest threat to private property and recreational facilities around Lake Nacimiento is a fire. The lake is in a Cal Fire designated severe fire hazard zone which imposes restrictions on fires allowed during the fire season (April to November). Every year there is usually a fire around or near the lake, mostly started by negligence or illegal activity. Going into our 6th year of the drought the hazard has rarely been greater as brush is over grown and dry, trees are stressed, and high dry grass is abundant. In the past we have had fires started by falling trees taking down power lines, ATVs going through dry grass, illegal burning of trash or debris, and large camp fires that put sparks in the air that can stay live for hundreds of yards.

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Cal Fire mans a station on the south shore at Las Tablas during the season. There is also a permanent station at Heritage Ranch. Stations from Paso Robles and Bradley also respond when needed. There are air resources stationed at Paso Robles airport. However, many of these resources get called away to other fires and may not be available to respond quickly. In one fire instance 2 years ago, it took over an hour for the first engine and crew to arrive at the fire. Luckily the quick response of the CaL Fire air resources and local residents ground response was able to somewhat control the fire and save houses before the crews arrived. Many lake communities have trained volunteers and local fire trailers to provide first response. Cal Fire can help provide the training.

To help keep the lake area safe and limit the fire hazard the following actions are required by all lake users:

• Small camp fires are allowed only in designated areas and water must be available

• No open fires are allowed on the shore line around the lake

• Drive ALL vehicles on designated roads or cleared space. Do not transit through dry grass

• Keep at least 100 yards (feet) cleared land around all structures. If you do not Cal Fire can issue you a citation

• Clear dead and fallen branches. Trim tress limps up to 6 feet off the ground. Trees getting started by a grass fire is the surest way for the fire to spread and become uncontrolled, especially if there is any wind.

• Burning of trash is not permitted. If you burn debris during the allowed burn season you must have a permit from SLO County APCD and Cal-Fire. The burn season runs December to April most years but may be cut shorter if fire conditions warrant.

• If you respond to help with a fire dress in long pants, hard shoes, long sleeve shirts and a scarf. Bring a shovel or rake to help clear the perimeter of fuel.

• Do not block access with vehicles so that Cal Fire can access

• When Cal Fire arrives get out of the way unless asked to assist. They do not need or want to be worried about the safety of volunteers instead of putting out the fire

• Do not put yourself in danger. If you or your structure are threaten by a fire depart the area by the quickest emergency route. If no other exit, go to the lake water.