Utah wildfire officials share roadside and camping fire prevention tips ahead of summer

Photo: Ayla Meinberg // Unsplash

UTAH — With spring runoff having come and gone almost a month earlier than usual, fire officials are preparing for a more active wildfire season this year.

Most wildfires in Utah are human caused, according to the Utah Division of Natural Resources. The law enforcement arm of the division is asking residents to take precautions to minimize the risk of human-caused fires.

Fire prevention on the road

On the road, fire officials warn that many wildfires start right on the shoulder of the highway.

“Dragging trailer chains create sparks that can ignite dry grass,” DNR said in a post on social media. They suggest using ‘D-rings’ or crossing the chains to keep them off the pavement.

They also advise drivers to never park a hot vehicle or UTV over tall, dry grass, as the exhaust system can reach temperatures over 500°C, which could ignite dry foliage.

Low tire pressure that puts your car at risk of a blowout can also be a catalyst. “A rim hitting the pavement at 65 mph is a literal spark plug for a roadside blaze,” DNR said in their post.

Fire prevention while camping

The division also released some tips for campers, including proper technique for extinguishing a campfire.

They recommend the “Douse, Stir, Check, Repeat” method, which includes dumping water on the fire, stirring the ashes and embers with a shovel, and then repeating until everything is cold to the touch.

Fire Restrictions

With variable weather, fire restrictions can change overnight based on wind and humidity.

Currently in Park City and Summit County, fire restrictions are already in place. The Park City Council approved a resolution prohibiting open flames and fireworks within city limits from May 1 through Oct. 31

If you’re out camping or recreating, you can check the current status for your specific destination at utahfireinfo.gov.

If you see smoke or suspicious activity while driving or camping, call 911 immediately. Early reporting is the key to containment.