By TRIBAL NEWS STAFF
When you hear about a wildfire, the first thing you typically think about is a large fire in the middle of the woods. However, a large percentage of wildfires take place in what’s called the Wildland/Urban Interface. The Northwest Coordinating Group (NWCG) has predicted an extremely dangerous fire season on the west side of the mountains this year. With the limited amount of rain our region received, we are in a drought, and the fuels on the ground are extremely dry and flammable. Below are a few ways you can help prevent brush/wildland fires:
- Contact 911 immediately if you notice an unattended or out-of-control fire.
- Never leave a fire unattended. Completely extinguish the fire—by dousing it with water and stirring the ashes until cold—before sleeping or leaving a campsite.
- When camping, take care when using and fueling lanterns, stoves and heaters. Make sure lighting and heating devices are cool before refueling. Avoid spilling flammable liquids and store fuel away from appliances.
- Do not discard cigarettes, matches and smoking materials from moving vehicles, or anywhere other than specified receptacles. Be certain to completely extinguish cigarettes before disposing of them.
- Follow local ordinances when burning yard waste. Avoid backyard burning in windy conditions, and keep a shovel, water and fire retardant nearby to keep fires in check. Remove all flammables from yard when burning.
