Dry,
hot and windy weather in Arizona creates ideal conditions for a
wildfire, and motorists should be aware of the important role they play
in wildfire prevention.
In
2012, approximately 55 percent of wildfires in Arizona were human
caused and most could have been prevented, according to State Forester
Scott Hunt with the Arizona State Forestry Division.
Preventing
wildfires is everyone’s responsibility, especially when operating a
vehicle. ADOT recommends following these wildfire prevention tips to
reduce the threat of fire along Arizona’s roads.
· Avoid driving or parking your vehicle in tall grass that touches your vehicle’s exhaust system.
· Never throw a lighted cigarette out the window of a vehicle.
· When
pulling a trailer, attach safety chains securely; loose chains can drag
on the pavement and cause sparks, igniting roadside fires.
· Look behind you before driving away to check for signs of a developing fire.
· Observe
“Red Flag” warnings. Warnings are issued when weather conditions are
conducive to the easy start and rapid spread of wildfires.
· Always use a spark arrestor in internal combustion engines.
Driving
into wildfire smoke can be dangerous; avoid active fires by calling
5-1-1 or log onto ADOT’s Traveler Information site at www.az511.gov to seek alternate routes.Additional information on wildfires can be obtained through the Arizona Emergency Information Network at www.AzEIN.gov, the state’s online source for real-time emergency updates, preparedness and hazard information.
An excellent source for wildfire information is www.wildlandfire.az.gov, which is supported by wildland fire agencies in Arizona as part of an interagency collaboration.
(source: Arizona Department of Transportation)
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