Local News in Brief : Countywide : People in Fire Hazard Areas Risk Prosecution
The Orange County Fire Department has warned that people who enter fire hazard areas closed to the public will be prosecuted.
The fire season began April 4, much earlier than usual because of the lack of rainfall and continued warm weather, officials said. Grass and brushy areas are reaching critical fire danger levels and fire officials have asked residents to take extra precautions.
Despite posted signs pointing out that some areas are closed to the public, the Fire Department has received reports that off-road vehicles, motorcycles, illegal dumping, illegal campfires and hikers have been found in these areas.
People other than the property owners who are found within a closed fire area may be cited and could face a penalty of up to $1,000 and six months in jail, officials said.
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