​The 4th of July is right around the corner! With most celebrations taking place at home this year, we want to remind you to take proper safety precautions to prevent potential wildfire danger.
 
Fireworks are a popular activity during the 4th of July holiday, but can also create dangerous fire hazards, not only among the Landmarks and surrounding habitats, but to homes, people, pets and more. Human-caused wildfires are one of the most common types of wildfires and even the smallest firework can be a threat to local wildlands. For example, a simple Sparkler can exceed temperatures up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to melt metal and can quickly ignite nearby brush. All fireworks, including “safe and sane” fireworks, are prohibited in County parks.

Safety has always been a top priority for most people when they spend time in nature. However, because of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we all need to rethink how we approach our time outdoors to make sure we keep ourselves and our fellow nature lovers safe. Before you head out on your next adventure, we encourage you to keep the following added measures in mind.

First and foremost, if you feel sick, you should stay home and seek medical advice from your doctor. Following the latest CDC advice and using the CDC coronavirus self-checker tool can help you decide if it’s safe for you to venture outdoors. If you are able to head outside, it is important to check and make sure that the trail or park you wish to visit is open before you go. During these uncertain times, parks and trails can be closed on short notice for a variety of reasons, so it is good to know their status before you make the effort to travel to your destination. Check LetsGoOutside.org for the status of City of Irvine-owned trails, and be sure to check the OC Parks website before heading out to any OC Parks trails or facilities. You should also check to make sure your pack has all the essentials you will need for your trip, including water. We encourage everyone to add the following items to their pack to limit the potential transmission of infectious diseases:

​Winter weather has made its way to Orange County, bringing heavy rainfall throughout the region. Rain helps the flora and fauna on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks thrive. It can also create unsafe trail conditions and other potential safety issues. In anticipation of wet weather, Irvine Ranch Conservancy and its landowning partners, OC Parks, City of Irvine and the City of Newport Beach, are working diligently to evaluate potential storm damage and reduce long-term effects to the local trail system. Irvine Ranch Conservancy urges visitors to do their part to help minimize rain damage by understanding wet trail conditions and abiding by closures to the trail system to help maintain the health of local habitats.
 
During the cool winter months, trails require downtime to dry out after rainfall, which could close trails for a few days following a storm. While many trails might appear dry at the trailhead, there are likely to be sections of the trail that collect moisture and remain muddy. It is important that visitors stay off the trails during this time and allow for the dirt to dry out completely, to ensure the longevity for public use and public safety. Ignoring closures could result in dangerous situations for nature enthusiasts, as well as park rangers and first responders.

​As the fall season approaches and cooler temperatures set in, the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are the perfect destination for nature lovers. In Southern California, the seasonal change also brings increased risk of wildfire throughout the region, including the 40,000 acres of open space that make up Irvine Ranch.
 
With the lack of rainfall over the summer months, much of the open space vegetation has become extremely dry and susceptible to fire. Dry and hot Santa Ana winds during the fall months contribute to increased wildfire risk. Wildfires pose a serious threat in Orange County, making it essential for residents to help prevent wildfires from starting and stay prepared in case a wildfire occurs in their area.

​Irvine Ranch Conservancy Encourages Visitors to Always Be Prepared During Outdoor Adventures
 
The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are the perfect place for an outdoor adventure! Even though this beautiful, natural habitat is right in your backyard, it’s important to be prepared for time spent outdoors. With the proper first aid tools and knowledge, you’ll be prepared for a safe trip through the Landmarks, no matter which activity you partake in. Whether you plan to take a self-guided tour along a sunny trail or ride your bike through the peaceful Orange County canyons, Irvine Ranch Conservancy encourages visitors to have a safe and enjoyable time exploring the Landmarks.
 
One of the most basic wilderness first aid skills is to be prepared. An important step to help protect yourself and your group when out on the Natural Landmarks is to pack an outdoor first aid kit. An adequate first aid kit can help you effectively tend to unexpected injuries, illnesses, or emergencies that might occur while in the wilderness. Whether you buy a premade kit or make one yourself, first aid kits should be packed according to the type and length of the activity or expedition.