08/21/2026
A large percentage of wildfires are caused by human error. With hot, dry conditions getting nice and comfortable in our area and not planning on leaving any time soon, here are some reminders for outdoor fire safety:
1. When performing hot work (welding, cutting, etc.), plan on performing work earlier in the morning when possible (lower temps and higher humidity), always have a water supply and safety spotter on hand, and create a fuel-free area downwind of the work if possible.
2. Take the opportunity to look around your home and create a safe barrier by watering or removing fuels, such as dead grasses, from around buildings.
3. Don’t park vehicles in tall grass areas, and avoid driving in these areas altogether if possible. Hot components, such as catalytic converters, can easily ignite dry fuels.
4. When towing, check and double-check all chains prior to beginning tow and at any stops during the trip. Loose/broken chains can cause extra headaches by igniting multiple fires over long distances, taxing resources.
5. At this point, you probably shouldn’t even shuffle your feet too hard until we get some rain. Shuffle indoors only until the fall.
Stay safe and warm everyone!
