Open burning ends May 1
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News from CSKT Division of Fire
FLATHEAD RESERVATION – Open spring debris burning is coming to a close. On May 1, a burn permit will be needed to conduct debris burns, and applications are available at csktfire.org.
Remember to be careful when burning and pay attention to the weather when planning a debris burn. A burn pile is less likely to escape control if these simple safety tips are followed:
1. Know the weather forecast and never burn on dry or windy days. These conditions make it easy for open burning to spread out of control.
2. Clear a 10-foot radius around your pile. Also, make sure there are no tree branches or power lines above.
3. Keep your burn pile small. A large burn may cast hot embers long distances. Small piles, four-by-four feet, are recommended. Add debris in small amounts as existing material is consumed.
4. Always have water and fire tools on site. When burning, have a charged water hose, bucket of water, shovel and dirt nearby to extinguish the fire. Drown the pile with water, stir the coals and drown again – repeat until the fire is dead.
5. Stay with the fire until it is completely out. Monitoring a debris burn continually from start to finish until dead is required by state law to ensure that any escaped sparks or embers can be extinguished quickly. Go back and recheck old burn piles as they can retain heat for several weeks and then rekindle when the weather warms and wind begins to blow.
