BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Kern County Fire Department is notifying all residents that open burning of hazard reduction fuels is closed, effective Wednesday.

KCFD says the decision was made based on the change of live fuel moisture levels and potential burning hazards in the area. As the weather in Kern County heats up and relative humidity drops, vegetation begins to dry out and become very susceptible to burning.

The Kern County Fire Department is reminding residents to make sure they maintain the required defensible space around their home.