Fire danger raised to 'high'

On Monday, fire officials in Northwest Montana moved the fire danger to “high,” based on current and expected weather conditions, as well as the number of resources available for response.

No fire restrictions are in effect, but state officials ask that visitors and residents exercise caution to avoid accidentally setting a wildland fire.

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation made the announcement Tuesday, citing continued warm weather and persistent dry conditions.

The National Weather Service is forecasting Kalispell’s high temperatures to remain in the 80s for most of the next week, with the potential for lightning associated with passing thunderstorms.

Hot, dry and windy conditions will continue to cure fine forest fuels such as grasses and brush, making them more likely to catch fire.

Sparks from dragging trailer chains or abandoned campfires can easily ignite dry grass and rapidly spread out of control.

Campfires are allowed, but must be less than four feet in diameter and should only be lit in areas clear of flammable materials and overhanging branches.

Debris burning in Flathead and Lake counties is illegal until open burning begins again in October.

The department’s press release noted that the majority of fires are started by people and to take care when recreating outdoors this summer. During the month of July, state firefighters in Northwest Montana responded to 35 fires, 21 of which were caused by fireworks, campfires, equipment striking a rock, vehicles or illegal debris burning.

The Department of Natural Resources and Conservation asks residents and visitors to:

• Extinguish all campfires by stirring with water and dirt until the ashes are cold to the touch. Never leave a campfire unattended.

• Adjust trailer chains so that they are not dragging on the ground, as sparks easily ignite roadside fires.

• Take extra care with combustion engines and equipment.

• Avoid driving cars, trucks, or off road vehicles on dry grass.