MISSOULA — Tall grass and large forested areas are at risk of burning during fire season in Western Montana, so it’s important to follow fire safety tips during the Fourth of July, and fire season.
Western Montana is an area that is highly susceptible to wildfires and with drier weather on the horizon, the fire risk will increase.
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Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) fire prevention specialist Kristin Mortenson says making your house wildfire-ready is important as natural causes can start many fires.
“Make sure that you’ve done everything you can to prepare your home, your gutters are cleaned out, you’ve got debris off the roof you’re making sure you have a non-combustible zone around your home,” Mortenson advised. "So, simple steps to prepare your home and yourself for a wildfire are a great way to prepare for wildfire season.”
Mortenson also says around 75% of wildfires in Montana are human-caused and they can be started in a variety of ways.
Pete Giardino with the Missoula Rural Fire District (MRFD) lists improperly discarded cigarettes, trailer safety chains, and fireworks among some of the ways humans can start wildfires.
Giardino also has tips for those who plan to use recreational fireworks during the Fourth of July.
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“If you have to shoot fireworks off do it in a safe location away from structures away from people away from vehicles away from dry grasses that can easily catch and start a wildland fire,” Giardino said.
“I know that can be challenging given the growth Missoula has seen over the last several years but fireworks are illegal within the city limits they are prohibited on state and federal property as well as county and city parks,” Giardino continued.
More information about fire safety and wildfire prevention can be found here https://www.mtfireinfo.org/.
Reduce fire risk through a few simple actions to protect themselves, their families, and the land:
- Obey all fireworks restrictions. Remember, fireworks are prohibited on all federal, state and county public lands.
- The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public, community-sponsored display.
- If you choose to light fireworks yourself, use extreme caution and light them in an area clear of grass and other fuels. Light them one at a time and move away quickly.
- Individuals should avoid forested areas when lighting fireworks due to potential fire spread.
- Once fireworks are done burning, douse them in water and make sure they are cool to the touch before putting them in the trash.
- Keep water and safety equipment on hand in case of a fire start from a firework.
- Please call 9-1-1 for help if a fire starts to escape your control.
