Wildfire Preparedness and Prevention Resources

Wildfire Prevention

The high temperatures, high winds, and prolonged drought contribute to Arizona’s extremely dry climate, which makes our state more susceptible to dangerous wildfires. We all have a role to play in preventing wildfires.

Here are some important tips from Arizona Interagency Wildfire Prevention:

• Check the weather and plan accordingly. Visit this National Weather Service map to see if there are any active fire watches, warnings or advisories. You can visit this interactive map to learn about fire and burning restrictions in a particular area.
• Take plenty of water for cooking, drinking AND putting out your campfire (when and where burning a fire is permitted). You can check for more information about “No Burn Days” in your area by visiting the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) website.
• Choose an area cleared to mineral soil and free of overhanging or surrounding vegetation. Making sure that you choose an area that is large enough and free of debris on the ground will help prevent your fire from unintentionally spreading.
• Never burn when windy. High winds and fire are not a good combination and can contribute to starting a wildfire. Remember to burn cautiously and responsibly.
• Never leave your fire unattended. Make sure you stay close to your fire and ensure you monitor it. If you are leaving your burning area, make sure you put out your fire properly and entirely.
• Create defensible space around your home. Add fire resistant plants and space plants to slow the spread of fire from plant to plant. Place wood piles and wooden picnic tables well away from buildings. Keep roofs free of needles and leaves. Screen openings under decks and attic and foundation vents.
• Be sure that all vehicles and equipment are in excellent working order. Safety chains or other trailer equipment must not drag or dangle. These items can get hot or create sparks. Don’t park a car in tall grass or over shrubs or vegetation. It’s always a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher in your vehicle.
• Remember that the use of certain ammunition and targets during dry and hot weather conditions could ignite a wildfire. Use these items with additional caution during times of high fire risk. Minimize the risk of fires by avoiding steel jacketed ammunition, ammunition with steel-core components. Exploding targets and tracer ammunition are prohibited on federally and state managed public lands in Arizona year-round.
• Properly extinguish cigarettes. Never walk away and leave a burning cigarette behind. Make sure any discarded cigarettes are fully extinguished and disposed of properly.
• Fireworks and explosives are prohibited. Fireworks and explosives are not permitted on federal or state managed public lands across Arizona. It’s best to leave fireworks to the professionals.
• Report all fires to 911. If you see a wildfire, alert the local authorities immediately.
• Educate friends, family, and neighbors. Share these fire prevention tips with members of your community.