The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection announced this morning that on July 24th, Law Enforcement Officers from the agency arrested a Santa Rosa man for starting the Roxie Fire which burned an area just west of Susanville.
According to details released Monday the suspect was booked into Lassen County Jail on suspicion of violating Penal Code 452(c), unlawfully and recklessly causing a fire that burns or causes to be burned, any structure, forest land or property.
The Roxie Fire started on July 24th, near the Roxie Peconom Campground and burned approximately 167 acres. The cause of the fire was determined to be an improperly extinguished campfire that was outside a designated campground.
Cal-Fire worked closely with law enforcement officers from the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Susanville Police Department during the investigation and arrest.
As fire danger remains extreme across California, CAL FIRE would like to remind residents of Campfire Safety:
Check for Fire Restrictions
Check to ensure there aren’t any local fire restrictions in the area. During periods of high fire danger, campfires may be restricted.
Build a Safe Campfire
Select a level, open location away from heavy fuels such as logs, brush or decaying leaves and needles. Clear an area at least 10 feet in diameter (local regulations may vary). Scrape away grass, leaves or needles down to the mineral soil. Scoop a depression in the center of the cleared area in which to build the fire and put a ring of rocks around it. Cut wood in short lengths, pile within cleared area and light the fire. The fire should be built no larger than necessary.
While the Fire is Burning
Always keep a shovel and bucket of water nearby. A responsible person should always be in attendance of the fire while it is burning. Never leave children around a fire unattended.
How to Completely Extinguish an Open Campfire
Use the “drown, stir and feel” method: drown the fire with water, then stir around the fire area with your shovel to wet any remaining embers and ash. Be sure to turn wood and coals over and wet all sides. Move some dirt onto the fire site and mix thoroughly to fully smother it. And finally, feel the area with the back of your hand to ensure nothing is still smoldering.
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