FOR IMMEDIATE NEWS RELEASE

                                                                                                                                                 April 7, 2010

USFS - Dakota Prairie Grasslands

240 West Century Avenue, Bismarck ND  58503

NORTH DAKOTA FOREST SERVICE

307 First Street East, Bottineau ND  58318-110

Contact:  Geremy Olson, Planning and Prevention Specialist, ND Forest Service; (701) 220-8618
                Sharon Small, Public Affairs Officer, Dakota Prairie Grasslands; (701) 250-4443

 Be Aware of the Spring Wildfire Season

Although this has proven to be another wet spring in North Dakota, it does not mean that we will not have a spring wildfire season.  Over the last week, we have heard about a number of small fires starting in areas that still have standing snow and water.  As the state dries out this spring, North Dakota residents need to be vigilant of weather and fuel conditions in their area.  Remember, it only takes one to two dry windy days for conditions to be right for a large fire to occur in the spring.  Another important thing to remember is that with last year’s wet summer, there is a much greater fuel load in the fields.  This will allow fires to burn hotter and faster than usual.  The spring wildfire season will continue until adequate green-up occurs.

Here are some tips to remember when burning this spring:

1. Know what the weather forecast is not only for that day, but the next day as well.  Do not burn on hot, dry, and windy days.
2. Be sure to have a clear zone, removing all flammables around your fire equal to four times the flame height.

3. If you start a fire, never leave the fire unless it is cold to the touch.
4. Always check your local restrictions before you burn at www.firerestrictions.org.
5. Know how to report a fire:
   1. Be aware of your surroundings so you can give a good and accurate location.
   2. Give an approximate size and describe any homes or structures that may be threatened.
   3. Stay on the line to help give further information as requested.
   4. Report any suspicious vehicles and activities. 

Remember, over 90 percent of wildfires in North Dakota are human-caused.  Please, do your part to prevent wildfires.  Our volunteer firefighters are working very hard to protect our state, so don’t forget to thank them for their efforts.  Remember, think before you burn!

email us |Phone: 701-627-4781
Three Affiliated Tribes, 404 Frontage Road, New Town, North Dakota,58763
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