The Los Angeles County Fire Department has received notification that National Weather Service-predicted weather conditions constitute a “Red Flag Warning.”

Gusty northeast winds and low relative humidity can be expected for most of Los Angeles County beginning Wednesday, May 1, through the afternoon of Thursday, May 2.  Winds are predicted to gust from between 45 to 55 mph in the mountain areas and 35 to 45 mph in the valleys, resulting in a high fire danger throughout Los Angeles County.

In response to the increased fire danger, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Daryl L. Osby has ordered additional staffing and the pre-deployment of resources throughout Los Angeles County.  In addition, citizens in brush areas are reminded to take appropriate precautions.  These precautions include:

* Report any sign of smoke immediately to your local fire department by dialing 9-1-1. (If dialing 9-1-1 from your cellular phone, know your location.)

* Use extreme caution when operating spark or flame-producing machinery in brush areas.

* If living in a hazardous grass or brush area, have a Wildfire Action Plan in place.  Be familiar with LACoFD’s READY! SET! GO! Program that provides important pre-planning and evacuation information to residents.  Visit www.fire.lacounty.gov for more information.

* Report any suspicious persons or vehicles to law enforcement.

For any questions, please contact the LACoFD Public Information Office at (323) 881-2413.