Heat wave grips Northwest, no open burning
<p>An unattended camp fire sparked the huge Robert Fire in 2003 that swept out of the North Fork all the way to Howe Ridge above Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park.</p>
The state Department of Natural Resources is reminding folks that there is no debris burning allowed in Flathead and Northern Lake counties beginning July 1. Each summer over 75% of wildfires in the Flathead are caused by human activity, with top causes being escaped and illegal debris burns. Debris burning is not allowed in July, August, and September due to the increased fire danger during Montana’s fire season. Open burning will begin again Oct. 1 as conditions allow.
The region is experiencing high temperatures of 100 and more and the heat is expected to last through at least the weekend, with only a slight chance of thunderstorms starting on Friday.
High temperatures will quickly dry forest fuels and create potentially dangerous burning conditions. Dedicated firefighting resources are stretched thin during fire season, so please take care and do what you can to prevent wildfires, the DNRC notes.
If hauling boats, RVs, or equipment, adjust trailer chains so they are not dragging on the ground. Dragging trailer chains throw sparks into dry grass and may quickly ignite fast-spreading roadside fires.
Use water, dirt, and a shovel to extinguish any campfires until they are cold to the touch and “dead out.”
Do not drive or park hot vehicles in dry grass.
In addition, it notes that fireworks are not allowed on any state or federal lands. Fireworks may quickly ignite dry vegetation and the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display sponsored by your local community. If you do plan to use fireworks, make certain they are legal in your area. Never light fireworks near dry grass or in forested areas; always have a bucket of water, a hose, or fire extinguisher nearby; and supervise children around fireworks at all times, the DNRC warns. Questions? Call the Community Preparedness Specialist for the Kalispell Unit of the DNRC at 751-2270.