BLM encourages simple steps to avoid starting wildfires on public lands

Long days of abundant sunshine and limited rainfall mean that grasses, shrubs and even trees are beginning to dry out in the Northern Rockies and Northern Plains.

Whether outside for work or play, individuals need to be careful so their actions don't accidentally spark a wildfire.

Something as simple as simple as driving over or parking a vehicle with a hot muffler in high, dry grass can start a fire. So can the use of gasoline powered equipment without a proper spark arrester. Use established fire rings or grills and make sure your campfire or charcoal briquettes are put dead out. Smoking should be restricted to open areas such as pavement or dirt.

As we near the Fourth of July holiday weekend, revelers are reminded that fireworks are always prohibited on all federal lands.

More tips on actions individuals can take to reduce the threat of wildfires can be found online at FireSafeMT.org. A list of year-round fire restrictions on land in Montana and the Dakotas managed by the Bureau of Land Management can be found at http://on.doi.gov/28UxXQY.