20 Nov Wildfire Prevention

Campfire Safety

thecampfireexperience.com

Roasting marshmallows or telling scary stories by a dim campfire are some of the best ways to spend a night. These fires make for an ambiance unmatched by any lightswitch, but they can have consequences a lightbulb could never even think of.  

Wildfires cause thousands of acres to be damaged every year as well as millions of dollars in taxpayers’ money. All of us can be more proactive in preventing wildfire in our areas.

Here are a few tips to keep that relaxing evening serenading a loved one by the fire an enjoyable evening.

When preparing an area that has not been built for fires, there are specific steps you can take to keep the area protected. Check previously dug out campfire pits to make sure they fit these standards.

– Clean an area 10 feet or more in diameter (check your local regulations, as they may vary).

– Clear the area of needles, leaves and grass

– Once the area is cleared, build a ring of rocks around the pit you dug.

– Always cut the wood short in length

And last, but most certainly not least,

Double check your fire to see if it is exhausted before you lay down for bed at night, or leave your campsite.

When exhausting a fire, use the “drown, stir and feel” method.

Drown the fire in water

Stir the water around with a shovel. Turn over wood and coals to guarantee all have been covered with water.

Feel with the back of your hand to make sure there is no part of the fire still smoldering.

Vehicle Safety

When driving to your favorite spot you may not realize that your vehicle could potentially start a wildfire. Remember these tips to keep our beloved local spots from lighting up.

No Dragging Parts

Check your car to make sure there are no dragging parts that can cause a spark.

When towing, secure your chains; use appropriate safety pins and hitch ball.

Car Maintenance

Check brakes, if brake pads are worn down, the metal to metal contact can cause sparks.

Maintain proper tire pressure, exposed wheel rims can throw sparks.

Keep your vehicle off dry grass or brush, hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can cause irreversible consequences.

Remember to protect our outdoors and take precautions to keep them fire protected. 

The consequences are costly.

Weathewizkids.com