Every year, brush fires cause millions of dollars in damage to Arizona homes and businesses. In many cases, brush fires near the highway are caused by drivers who fail to extinguish their campfires properly or discard cigarettes out of car windows. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) urges drivers to take precautions this summer to help prevent brush fires from breaking out. Here are some tips from ADOT on how drivers can help avoid fires of brush:1. Do not Throw Cigarettes Out of Car Windows
Brush fires are a severe problem in many parts of the world, and careless smokers can often start them. When a cigarette butt is thrown out of a car window, it can easily land in dry grass or leaves, igniting a fire that can quickly spread to nearby trees and brush.
2. Do not Park Your Car in Tall Grass or Dry Brush
With the warm weather finally here, everyone is eager to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. However, it’s essential to be careful about where you park your car. Parking in tall grass or dry brush can be a fire hazard. The heat from your car’s exhaust system can ignite the vegetation, and the blaze can quickly spread to nearby homes or businesses.
3. Make Sure Your Campfire is Completely Out
When you're done with your campfire, make sure it's entirely out before leaving. Spreading water on top of the ashes will help cool them off and dry them quickly so that no sparks fly upward when walking away from an unburned spot or tip over onto its side while gathering sticks for another round!
4. Be aware of Fire Restrictions in Areas Where You are Driving
When driving in areas where there are fire restrictions in place, it is essential to be aware of the signs and closures that are in place. This will help to prevent the spread of fires. In addition, driving through tall grass or brush can also create a spark that can start a fire.
While we hope you never have to deal with a brush fire, it’s crucial to be prepared. ADOT has some great tips on how drivers can help prevent these fires from starting in the first place. We encourage you to read through their advice – it just might save your life or someone else’s.