Fire prevention awareness: Protecting our public lands during harvest season

Press release

BILLINGS — As we go through the critical harvest season, the Bureau of Land Management emphasizes the importance of fire prevention, particularly regarding human-caused fires related to agricultural operations. These fires can have devastating effects on our public lands, fields, equipment, and local communities. 

To mitigate the risk of fire, we urge farmers and agricultural workers to consider the following safety measures: 

1. Regular equipment maintenance: Regular checks on agricultural machinery for potential issues that could lead to sparks or overheating can be crucial to preventing fires. 

2. Trailer safety: Inspecting trailers for wear and tear is vital. Attention should be given to tires and brakes, as these can create dangerous sparks on the road. 

3. Secure trailer chains: Properly securing trailer chains is critical. Chains that drag on the ground can generate sparks, igniting dry grass or debris. 

4. Stay vigilant: Operators should immediately report any signs of smoke or fire to authorities. 

By implementing these proactive measures, we can work together to protect our public lands and communities from the threats of fire during the hot and dry weather forecasted for August.  For more information about fire prevention and safety tips, please visit https://www.nifc.gov/fire-information/fire-prevention-education-mitigation.