Placer County in Northern California is stepping up work with truckers and agencies to help stop brake fires along Interstate 80 this summer.
The plan: Local leaders, the California Trucking Association (CTA), Caltrans, CAL FIRE, and CHP are joining forces. Their main goal is to keep both the truckers and small mountain communities safe from roadside wildfires caused by overheating brakes.
- More than 60 fires along I-80 last year were tied to brake problems.
- This month, CTA is starting Brake Safety Awareness Week, sharing needed info about brake checks and maintenance with drivers.
- A special webinar was held June 19 to give truckers tips on proper brake inspection and how to keep brakes cool during downhill runs.
On the ground: Crews are already out cutting down dry brush between Colfax and Blue Canyon, clearing areas that could burn if a fire starts next to the road.
Why it matters: Brake fires can quickly spread to surrounding forest, especially during the dry season. Cindy Gustafson, Placer County Supervisor, said, “We must enhance safety precautions and increase awareness among truck drivers traveling I-80. Brake fires not only endanger the drivers themselves but pose a serious wildfire threat to our small, vulnerable foothill and mountain communities.”
All of this comes as agencies say it takes teamwork—truckers, highway departments, and fire crews—to lower the risk of fires along I-80. More details on the county’s safety push can be found according to Placer County.
CHP says they’ll keep working with partners through the summer to help keep communities, truckers, and the route safe during California’s fire season.