Wildfire Prevention Tips

While many wildfires are caused by dry lightning in the western state, a number of fires are human-caused, making these fires preventable.  The public is urged to take a few precautions during the fire season.  Be sure you're aware of the restrictions and closures in your area or whenever you are in other jurisdictional and recreational areas.  Understand what you can do to make our communities and forested areas safe for everyone!

Here are some safety tips to follow when visiting public lands or other areas where wildland fires can ignite.

What is the safest way to build, maintain, and extinguish a campfire?

• Clear campfire sight down to bare soil
• Circle the pit with rocks.
• Build campfires away from overhanging branches, steep slopes, dry grass, and leaves.
• Keep a bucket of water and a shovel nearby.
• Never leave a campfire unattended.
• When putting out a campfire, drown the fire, stir it, and drown it again.
• Always have an adult around to supervise outdoor cooking.
• Be careful with gas lanterns, barbeques, gas stoves, and anything that can be a source of ignition for a wildfire.

How do I safely operate a on or off-road vehicle on public lands when fire potential is high?

• Never park your vehicle on dry grass.
• Never throw a lighted cigarette out the window of a vehicle.
• Grease trailer wheels, check tires, and ensure safety chains are not touching the ground.
• Avoid driving through tall grass.
• Internal combustion engines on off-road vehicles require a spark arrester.
• Check and clean the spark arrester.
• Carry a shovel and fire extinguisher in your vehicle or OHV/ATV.

What are the dangers of using motorized equipment on Federal and State public lands?

• Sparks from chainsaws, welding torches, and other equipment can cause wild fires.
• Please check local restrictions before using such equipment.

How can I prevent a wildfire if I smoke?

• Never throw a lighted cigarette from the window of a vehicle.
• Never walk off and leave a burning cigarette.
• Be aware of smoking restrictions when recreating on Federal and State public lands.
• Use ash trays.
• Follow all local restrictions and guidelines about smoking.

What can kids do to help prevent wildfires?

• Never play with matches, lighters, flammable liquids, or any fire.
• Tell your friends about fire prevention.
• Stay calm during an emergency, and listen to instructions from your parents or another person who is in charge.

As a homeowner in the wildland/urban interface, how can I protect my property from wildfires?
 

• Use noncombustible or fire resistant building materials, especially on the roof.
• Install a chimney screen or spark arrestor.  Clean your chimney at least once a year.  Have it inspected for an accumulation of soot or creosote building up.
• Clean your roof surfaces and gutters regularly to avoid accumulation of leaves, twigs, pine needles, and other flammable materials.
• Store firewood and all other combustibles away from your home.
• Keep your yard well-trimmed and free from debris.  Have a 30-foot noncombustible fire break surrounding your home.
• Be sure you have your driveway accessible and well marked for emergency vehicles.

For more information on what you can do to reduce the risk of wildfires log on to:  Firewise.org