Page 16 Berthoud Weekly Surveyor
Summer in Berthoud
2022
Wildfire prevention and safety in Larimer County this summer
Firefighters use multiple resources to extinguish wildland fires in Colorado.
By Amber McIver-Traywick The Surveyor
There is an increased chance of wildfires this year in Colorado and, along the lines of Smokey Bear’s iconic phrase, everyone can play a part in preventing these potentially devastating fires. According to the National Interagency Fire Center’s predictive services, overall, drought continues across nearly 90% of the West and much of the Plains meaning things are very dry — perfect fire conditions. The good news is there are several things we can do to help mitigate the risk of starting a fire and if one does happen be prepared to stay safe. The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Services Unit and local fire departments/districts monitor potential wildfire conditions throughout the year. The Larimer County Board of County Commissioners will impose fire restrictions when necessary based on the recommendations of the Sheriff’s Office and/or any fire chief or fire agency within Larimer County. Those restrictions are made public through social media and on the Larimer County website. Although many fires are ignited by lightning and other natural causes, fires started by people are also increasingly common. Regardless of the current conditions, residents and visitors to Larimer County are encouraged to exercise caution with any potential source of ignition. Here are some of the most common sources: Campfires — only build campfires when and where authorized, do not leave them unattended and put them out completely. Not halfway, not almost, but completely. Use ample water and stir until the coals are cool to the touch. It takes a little extra time but could be costly to skip. Cigarette and cigar butts — dispose of lit smoking materials properly. Heat transfer from exhaust systems — do not park a vehicle in areas with tall grass that could catch fire. Grinding and welding — keep a shovel and fire extinguisher close and ready to use as these activities can start fires. Lawnmowers — metal blades striking rocks can create sparks and start fires. A large fire in Loveland started from a woman mowing her lawn. Be careful and having a water hose on the ready is a good idea. Fireworks — Any fireworks that leave the ground or
Photo from foothillsfire.colorado.gov
explode are illegal in Colorado. Legal fireworks include the following: fountains, toy caps, snake or glow worms, ground spinners, illuminating torches, dipped sticks and sparklers, toy propellants and noise-makers that crackle or whistle but don’t explode. If you see smoke. If you see smoke report it immediately by calling the LCSO non-emergency number 970-416-1985. Provide emergency dispatchers with the best location of the source of the smoke, where you are, the color of the smoke, and any characteristics of the smoke you can describe. Wildfire evacuations In the event of an active wildfire, the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office may issue evacuation notices for your safety. They do that through a service called NOCOAlert. If you have a landline, you will receive emergency alerts on that phone. If you do not have a landline or wish to receive emergency alerts on your cell phone, visit www. nocoalert.org to register for free. LCSO issues two types of evacuation notices: Voluntary evacuation Evacuations are advised for residents and businesses if they are concerned for their safety, feel they need
