Fire danger ramps up

Interagency Wildland Fire Managers have made the decision to raise the fire danger for the Flathead to “high.”

Several factors played into the decision, according to a release from the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, including a forecast of hot, dry weather for the foreseeable future and grasses have quickly begun to dry and cure. In addition, local firefighters have been called to assist as fire conditions in other areas of the country are extreme and requiring additional firefighting resources, the release notes.

Officials are asking residents and visitors to be aware of the fire conditions as they travel through the area noting that 75 percent of wildfires are human-caused.

If pulling a boat or camper trailer, adjust chains so that they are not touching the ground. Dragging chains produce sparks that can quickly ignite multiple grassfires along roadsides.

People should avoid driving or parking hot vehicles in dry grass.

When planning to have a campfire, have water and a shovel nearby, never leave your fire unattended, and make sure the campfire is cold to the touch before leaving.

Debris burning is not allowed during the months of July, August, and September due to fire season. Typically, escaped and illegal debris burns are one of the top causes of wildfires in the Flathead area.