SALT LAKE CITY (June 10, 2024) – As the summer starts to heat up, state, federal and local fire officials spoke at a press event to encourage Utahns and visitors to exercise good Fire Sense as they head outdoors to enjoy the state’s natural wonders.
“Fire Sense is common sense,” said Jamie Barnes, Director and State Forester of Utah Forestry, Fire and State Lands. “These are small, simple steps we can take while recreating outdoors, and they can go a long way in keeping Utah wildfire-free this summer.”
The Fire Sense campaign is entering its fourth year after a historic wildfire season in 2020 that saw over 1,100 human-caused wildfires that burned almost 100,000 across the state. Since then, Utahns have helped reduce the number of human-caused fires in Utah by 60%.
With the moisture the state has received over the past couple of years, it has seen healthy growth of fine grasses and shrubs, which has increased fire danger across Utah. This vegetation is easily ignitable and poses a severe wildfire threat this summer.
As Utahns and out-of-state visitors enjoy the wonderful outdoors the state has to offer, they were encouraged to use Fire Sense when traveling along Utah roadways, enjoying a campfire, when target shooting on public lands and celebrating with fireworks this holiday season.
Many wildfires that start in Utah are along roadways as people travel across the state. Travelers are encouraged to properly maintain their vehicles by checking their tires for wear and sun rot. When towing a trailer, ensure that your vehicle is not overloaded and that the trailer’s chains are tight enough not to drag along the ground. Properly maintained vehicles lessen the chance that you might experience an incident requiring you to pull off to the side of the road. If you have to pull off the road, drivers should not park in dry grass as the heat from your vehicle could start a fire.
Once you reach your destination, you might want to enjoy a campfire. Preparing before you leave can help you ensure your campfire doesn’t become a wildfire. Pack a shovel and a bucket you can fill with water and keep it nearby. Before leaving, douse your campfire with water and stir the hot coals with the shovel. Do not leave your campfire until it is cool to the touch.
Using your Fire Sense this summer can stop a wildfire from ruining your summer activities. Each individual can do their part to help keep Utah wildfire-free.
For more information about Fire Sense, please visit utahfiresense.org.
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