Purpose:
This guideline aims to ensure the safety of our campus community by prohibiting the use of any outdoor open flame devices during Red Flag Warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
Red Flag Warnings are directed by the National Weather Service when weather conditions are favorable to the rapid spread of wildfires. This warning indicates that critical fire weather conditions are occurring or expected to occur shortly. This condition could be due to low relative humidity, strong winds, dry fuels, or any combination thereof.
The following open flame heat sources are prohibited during Red Flag Warnings:
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Open flame cooking devices, including the use of chafing fuels (Sterno cans), and exterior cutting or welding.
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Other open flame devices or devices having the potential to cause spark or flame.
Scope and application:
The requirements in this guideline apply to all University faculty, staff, students, volunteers, visitors, and outside contractors working on university premises. Under the red flag warning, the guideline applies to all occupied or unoccupied facilities owned or leased by the University.
Responsibility:
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The Campus Fire Marshal’s Office will monitor Red Flag Warnings and communicate with all permit applicants and departments to ensure compliance with this guideline.
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Fire prevention staff shall enforce these guidelines and ensure all applicable event applicants and employees know and comply.
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It is the responsibility of all campus occupants to adhere to this guideline.
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Students and staff are advised to be extremely cautious with any outdoor activities that could spark a fire, as the risk of wildfires is high during a red flag warning
Red Flag Warnings are posted online at California Fire Weather.
Open-flame devices are prohibited and unacceptable for use unless prior approval has been granted through a special event open-flame fire permit or otherwise approved by the Campus Fire Marshal.
If there are questions regarding this guideline, please contact the Fire Prevention Division at Fireprevention@berkeley.edu or 510-642-3073.
Approval Date: 09-2024
Revision Date: 04-2025