Human-Caused Fires Increasing

Contacts: Susan Marzec 801 539-4028, Lola Bird 801 539-4033

August 26 2008—Salt Lake City, Utah—After a relatively quiet fire season, an increase in human-caused fires is causing concern with Bureau of Land Management (BLM) officials.  Officials are asking the public to be extremely careful and remember that the vegetation is dry and conditions are ripe for active large fires. 

In the past three days, there have been four significant human-caused fires throughout Utah.  Although these fires are still under investigation, it is likely that one of the major culprits has been sparks - from vehicles, ATV’s, backhoes, target shooting, and other sources.  Additionally, fires caused by unattended campfires are on the rise. 

“With fall approaching, it is easy to forget that vegetation has dried out during the summer and wildland fires are as much a danger now as they were earlier in the season,” said Sheldon Wimmer, fire management officer for Utah BLM.  “Currently, we are in an explosive fire situation and need the public to pay more attention to simple fire prevention rules – especially those related to spark arresters and campfires.  Even parking in grasses next to the highway can start a fire.”

Advanced preparation, clear thinking and wise actions may have prevented each of the human-caused fires.  Some things the public can remember when camping, hunting, or just out for the day include:

• Have a shovel and bucket next to your campfire at all times.  Never leave a campfire burning!
• Install and maintain a spark arrester on ATVs, chainsaws and generators.
• Clear all grass and weeds 10 feet from any combustion engine, spark or flame – and don’t drive or back into dry grasses
• Carry a fire extinguisher on equipment.
• Use extreme caution on all outdoor activities.

Please:  Do your part.  Don’t start a wildfire.

Any fire that is not the result of lightning is human-caused and may have federal, state or local civil and/or criminal statute liability.  The penalties of conviction for maliciously or negligently starting a fire can be up to five years of jail time, and liability both for the suppression and rehabilitation costs.  Federal policy requires that all human-caused fires on federal lands be investigated and mandates that cost recovery be pursued.

Information on and links to specific fires burning in the State of Utah and on fire prevention ideas can be found at www.utahfireinfo.gov.