The U.S. Forest Service and the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation are urging the public to be extremely careful with all types of outdoor fires. Fire danger conditions and fuels are significantly elevated, with most of the state being under moderate or severe drought. Though daily fire danger ratings may fluctuate, the overall situation is significantly elevated beyond what is typical for the area at this time of year.
Over the next week, warm and dry conditions continue to be projected in the forecast. Warm afternoon temperatures, low relative humidity and gusty, dry winds encourage the spread of wildfire. Many people believe that lightning starts most wildfires. In fact, nine out of ten wildfires nationwide are started by humans.
Some helpful wildfire prevention tips include:
* Completely extinguish all campfires, both in established campsites and dispersed sites, as well as picnic areas. Fires should be doused with water and stirred to mix ashes and water until the ashes are cool enough to touch with the back of your hand. Remember, if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave. This applies to ashes from charcoal grills as well.
* Never discard ashes from campfires, charcoal grills, wood stoves, or cigarettes on vegetation or organic soils.
* Refrain from smoking in areas with flammable vegetation or organic soils. Cigarette butts and ashes should never be discarded in the forest regardless of location. If you packed it in, please pack it out.
* Do not drive off established forest roads or park on top of vegetation, as heat from mufflers and engines can ignite vegetation that touches them.
* When operating chainsaws, generators, and power equipment ensure that you have required spark arrestors and supplies (shovel, water, fire extinguisher) to deal with a fire if one should start.
* If you encounter a wildfire in the forest, please dial 911 to report the fire and be prepared to give a location of the fire and other pertinent information for first responders.
* During times of elevated fire danger or drought, please contact the Green Mountain National Forest or the Vermont Department of Forests Parks and Recreation regarding potential fire restrictions.
* Always be careful with fire.
* Make sure that all vegetation and flammable material are far away from your fire.
* And “Remember…Only You Can Prevent Wildfires.”