Wildfire Prevention Tips

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wildfire Prevention Tips

Most wildfires are caused by lightning during extreme dry or drought weather conditions.  However, an alarming number of fires are ignited by acts of human carelessness.

 

Know the Current North Dakota
Fire Danger Rating
Visit this Web site:

http://www.weather.gov/bis/fire

 

When the Fire Danger Index ratings are between high to extreme, area residents are urged to take precautions and be aware of fire/burn restrictions and closures.

 

Here are some helpful tips to follow.

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

Check the Fire Danger Rating (see Web site listed above) to determine the fire category for the day you are having the campfire to see if campfires are restricted or prohibited.

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

  • Where can I use fireworks on public lands?

    • The use of fireworks is strictly prohibited on ALL Federal and State public lands.

    What is the safest way to burn trash?

    • Check the daily Fire Danger Index to determine the fire category for the day you want to burn to see if open burning is restricted or prohibited by a local burn ban.
    • Burn trash in a safe incinerator that includes: Heavy mesh screen with holes not much larger than 1/4 inch and a metal barrel in good condition.
    • Clear the area of flammable material at least 10 feet around the incinerator/burn barrel.

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

    • Check the Fire Danger Index for local conditions to see if off-road travel is restricted or prohibited.
    • Avoid driving and parking your vehicle in tall dry grass.
    • Never throw a lit cigarette out of the window of a vehicle.
    • Grease trailer wheels, check tires and ensure safety chains are not touching the ground.
    • All off-road vehicles require a spark arrester and should be checked and cleaned periodically.
    • Carry a shovel and fire extinguisher in your vehicle, OHV/ATV.

    What can kids do to help prevent wildfires?

    • Never let children play with matches, lighters, flammable liquids or any fire. 
    • Educate your children and friends about fire prevention in the outdoors.
    • Stay calm during an emergency, and listen to instruction's from parents or another person who is in charge during outdoor activities.
      Additional information can be obtained by contacting your local fire department or the Morton County Law Enforcement Center at 667-3405.

    A copy of the North Dakota Rural Fire Danger Guide can be viewed by clicking on the document link below.