Sacramento Firefighters Warn Dry Vacant Lots A Danger To Nearby Homes
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) -- Each summer fires start on vacant lots overgrown with weeds, which can spread to homes and destroy them.
Sacramento fire fighter, Roberto Padilla said, clearing grass all around your home is crucial and not just the front yard. Dead plants, tall grass or junk in the backyard should be cleared also.
Resident, Jose Palomo, lives next to a vacant lot with his family, and is always worried what one spark or wander cigarette would do.
In efforts to protect his family, Palomo planted a garden on the dry lot next to him to create a green buffer, in case fire comes his way.
"Time and time again we've seen that happen. Dry brush fuels fire that eats up homes in a matter of minutes, leaving home owners in disbelief" said Padilla.
According to the city of Sacramento code enforcement, it is considered trespassing if you go and cut the grass yourself.
Enforcers recommend reporting the property owners to the city which will cut the grass if the owner doesn't.
The property by the Palomos has been reported to the city.
"I try to watch out, to see if somebody throws something out there that might catch it on fire" said Palomo.