News release from CAL FIRE:

Cooler weather and recent rains have prompted the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) to transition into winter staffing levels as of Monday November 14, 2011 at 8:00 a.m. for the Madera, Mariposa, Merced Unit.  Unit Chief Nancy B. Koerperich states the transition to winter preparedness allows CAL FIRE to manage our budget efficiently through limited staff reductions and station closures where the threat of wildland fires has been severely limited or mitigated due to the weather.

CAL FIRE remains prepared to respond to any emergency, including wildfires, with sufficient staffing. But should the need arise, CAL FIRE is prepared to call resources back should fire weather conditions dictate. The cooler temperatures and higher humidity allow for a transition to winter preparedness that coincides with the permitting of residential hazard reduction burning in some areas.

Ozone is above acceptable levels today through the San Joaquin Valley. For that reason the Air Pollution Control District suggests all outdoor activity be limited for those with ozone susceptibility in the orange colored counties. Red means all outdoor activity should be cancelled for your health. Take Care!