LEARN TO LIMIT FIRE RISK

DURING WILDFIRE PREVENTION WEEK

EAST LANSING, Mich. – Many Michigan residents believe that autumn is the worst season for wildfires. Spring is really the “hot” season in Michigan, as most of the state’s 8,000 to 10,000 wildfires occur between March and May.

During Michigan Wildfire Prevention Week, April 17 to 23, residents can take stock of their outdoor burning practices and make their yards and homesteads more accessible to emergency vehicles.

Spring is the worst wildfire season because dead and brown vegetation can easily ignite. While a homeowner starting a fire might think that soggy spring ground will limit the chances for a fire to spread, grass and leaves dry out quickly, making them unintended tinder.

“In the spring, people are outside raking and burning yard waste,” says Mark Hansen, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension wildfire specialist. “These fires can escape due to floating embers called ‘firebrands’ and can ignite nearby fields and brush. Even a burn barrel can be a source of firebrands.”

Homeowners can help prevent wildfires by following local burning ordinances. Never burn any debris without a burning permit. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources monitors fire danger conditions and then alerts township office or fire department. Always follow their advice on when and when not to burn.

There are a number of protective strategies that homeowners can take to prevent wildfires or limit potential damage to their residences. To learn more about these, visit the MSU Extension Emergency Management Web site at www.msue.msu.edu/emergency/.

For more information on protecting a home from wildfire, pick up a copy of “Protect Your Michigan Home from Wildfire” (MSU Extension Bulletin E-2831) at your county Extension office.

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