Equipment problems are No. 2 cause of wildfires

While lightning starts the majority of wildfires each year in the Northern Rockies Coordination Area (northern Idaho, Montana and North Dakota), equipment fires started by bad bearings, mufflers, tires and dragging chains come in second during the summer fire season.

This year is no different, according to Jennifer Mayberry, of FireSafe Montana and a team member of the Northern Rockies Coordinating Group.

“There have been more than 1,100 human-caused fires in the Northern Rockies this year, many of which are attributed equipment malfunctions,” she said. “These fires are easily preventable with some basic maintenance, which not only can prevent a fire but saves you money as well.”

Mayberry recommends people:

• Make sure all mechanical outdoor equipment are equipped with properly-working mufflers and bearings.

• Avoid driving or parking in tall, dry grass. If a vehicle breaks down, stay on the road or pull off on an approach.

• Maintain vehicle tires to reduce the risk of blowouts — exposed rims can start fires.

• Make sure safety chains on trailers don’t drag on the ground and cause sparks.

• Have adequate water available to create a safety zone when cutting, grinding and welding.

• Avoid activities that could cause a fire during the hottest and/or windiest time of the day.