Fire danger rated at high on Reservation
Hey savvy news reader! Thanks for choosing local.
You are now reading
1 of 3 free articles.
Confederated Salish and Kootenai Division of Fire officials report that the Flathead Indian Reservation's fire danger is high, especially on the west side of the reservation.
Debris burning by permit is closed for the fire season. The moisture in fire fuels is starting to lower as temperatures climb. The near-term forecast calls for high temperatures and low relative humidity.
Although no restrictions are in place at this time, the Division of Fire would like to stress to the public the importance of fire safety while working and recreating in the outdoors.
Nighttime and early morning patrols at area campgrounds and popular recreation sites have revealed that the vast majority of campers have been following fire-safe practices with campfires or charcoal fires. Firefighters in the area want to extend thanks to those who have paid attention to fire safety.
Please do your part to ensure there is one less spark as a result of your outdoor activities. Avoid mowing tall grass in the heat of the afternoon where the blade can strike a rock, make sure safety chains are not sparking on the road while towing a trailer and use a spark arrester in your equipment’s exhaust system in grassy areas.
If a small fire becomes a fullblown forest fire, it could lead to arson charges, fines and even the bill for all fire-caused costs. Division of Fire officials want to stop human-caused fires during this fire season. Tremendous effort goes into preventive programs and information campaigns.
If you witness any suspicious acts or abandoning of campfires, please contact your local police or call 1-800-47-ARSON. It’s an anonymous call, and your identity will remain confidential. You may also go online to www.wetip.com. Rewards for information can go up to $10,000. Let’s work together to keep our wildland areas safe and protected. Questions? Call the Division of Fire at 406-676-2550.
