Commander's Action Line: Reducing fire hazards

  • Published
  • By Tailwind Staff
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Question: Recently, there was a fire at a vacant housing unit near one of the school's on base. Are there any plans to cut the grass in the area to lessen the fire hazard?

Answer: Safety of our base residents is our top concern and cutting the grass after the growing season is one of our base's Fire Protection Program centerpieces. We are currently in the process of mowing areas identified as fire hazard and should be in the location that you have mentioned within days. 

Our expectation is that most of the areas requiring mowing will be complete by the end of July. Base residents can help by calling in other areas where grass has not been cut at 424-0795.

Below are some ways to prevent fires:

1. Do not discard cigarette butts in unapproved areas. Never throw these items from your car or flick your ashes out the window. The 60th Security Forces Squadron will site you and deduct two points on your driving record if they see this happening.

2. Keep the areas around your house in a neat and orderly manner as this prevents the spread of fire. Remove rocks from areas that you mow as a spark from a lawnmower blade can start a fire. Store your flammable liquids away from ignition sources and in approved containers. Gasoline stored in a milk jug is not approved.

3. Watch out for broken glass. Glass, if positioned correctly, can reflect sunlight and heat grass and plants until they catch fire.

4. Don't let children play with matches or lighters. Many fires are started by the unintentional actions of a curious child.

If you have any additional questions, contact the Fire Prevention Office at 424-3683.