RED FLAG RESTRICTED PARKING PROGRAM

RED FLAG INSTRUCTION: In an attempt to increase public safety, the Fire Department and Department of Transportation have created a program to remove illegally parked vehicles in posted locations within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. This program was implemented with the assistance of the City Council to remove vehicles that create a hazardous condition on Red Flag Days. Station Commanders were asked to survey their district and identify critical areas where parked vehicles could delay citizens trying to evacuate and fire companies attempting to gain access during a Brush Incident. Station Commanders were asked to identify areas such as very narrow roads, hairpin turns, tight curves, and key intersections that, if not cleared of vehicles, would create a choke point. These intersections were highlighted and given to the Department of Transportation. The Department of Transportation made 1700 new signs and posted them in these identified areas, since January 1, 2006.

The goal of this program is to educate the public on the potential hazards associated with a fast-moving brush fire, and the importance of keeping roadways clear and traffic moving. The fire service has learned from incidents such as the Oakland Hills fire and the Cedar fire that citizens becoming trapped in their vehicles, while evacuating, can lead to a catastrophic situation.