Prepare, Prevent, Protect

More than 1.3 million acres burned across Montana in 2017 making it one of the most significant wildfire years in history. While wildfires can occur at any time of the year, the majority of wildfires in Montana occur between May and September of each year.

May is an ideal time to promote wildfire awareness in Montana so that residents and visitors can begin to reduce wildfire risk to their properties and communities through hazardous fuels reduction, incorporation of fire resistant building materials, and upkeep around their properties to maintain the wildfire risk reduction actions they have done previously.

May is designated Wildfire Awareness Month in Montana and is part of a multi-state campaign to encourage individuals and communities to prepare for wildfire season. The purpose is to raise awareness about community preparedness and what risk reduction steps you can take to prepare your family and property.

Residents in areas with a potential for wildfires can lower their risk through their preparedness efforts. Proactive actions from a single individual, or entire neighborhood, contribute to a safer community when wildfires happen.

Saturday, May 5 is designated as Wildfire Community Preparedness Day. This national event promotes actions that positively contribute to reducing community wildfire risk and encourages communities around the country to dedicate a few hours or an entire day to participate in wildfire risk reduction activities.

Here are a few ways to prevent and prepare for wildfires:

• Clean out gutters, roofs and other areas where debris has settled.

• Avoid burning on windy days and never leave a burn pile unattended.

• Create an evacuation plan and practice the route with family members.

• Keep the space around your home, known as the home ignition zone, clear of dense vegetation.

• Take action in your community by organizing a wildfire preparedness event.

Visit http://www.keepgreen.org for more information about how to plan an event in your community.