Montana Governor encourages extra caution due to heightened wildfire risk
by Governor Steve Bullock office media release
June 29, 2016
HELENA, MT – Governor Steve Bullock encourages Montanans to take extra precautions with fireworks, campfires and other outdoor activities during their Independence Day celebrations.
"The recent high temperatures and dry conditions have elevated the wildfire danger across the state, particularly in the southeast portion of the state; where conditions are extremely dry. These conditions coupled with fireworks and increasing summer recreation have put firefighters on heightened alert," Bullock said. "One careless spark could ignite the next wildfire."
Firefighting agencies across Montana dedicate themselves to keeping communities safe from wildfires but it takes everyone working together. Bullock stressed, "We all have an important role in preventing wildfires to ensure we keep Montana green."
Montanans are reminded that fireworks are prohibited on all state and federal lands, and present a wildfire risk wherever there is dry vegetation. Bullock also reminded recreationists to never leave a campfire or barbecue unattended, check tow chains to assure they are not dragging, and remember that vehicles parked or driving in tall vegetation can start a fire. "By using our ‘One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire’ motto we can celebrate our independence while being fire-safe," Bullock said.
Firefighters are already in action across Montana with the recent Moser Dome Road Fire near Laurel, Yates 2 Fire in Carter County and pervious fires in Rosebud County and Powder River County. Central and western Montana is also keeping busy with initial attack on new starts. Crews are working hard to put out these fires before they grow in size. Montana’s fire activity coupled with major fires burning in California, Arizona, South Dakota, Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, and Alaska, is putting a demand on firefighting resources across the West.
Contact your local fire department for information on any local fire restrictions.
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