Santa Barbara County’s recent Alisal brush fire is a reminder to us all of the dangers of wildfire in our region.
Earlier this month, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill which advocates hope will encourage prescribed, or controlled burns – aimed at reducing fuel loads that can lead to large wildfires.
Matthew Shapero from Ventura County Wildfire Collaborative says they’re a useful tool in preventing wildfires.
"We used to be more familiar with using fire for good," he told KCLU.
"Precribed burning can be used to great positives," said Shapero.
"When you do it in a safe manner you can accomplish a lot and ultimately improve the safety of the community as a whole."
He said they are working towards their first burn in the county in January 2022.
