Manny L’Esperance,
Fire expert

L'Esperance recently explained the urgent steps being taken to prevent a disastrous fire. Los Alamos, landlocked atop mesas and surrounded by thousands of acres of forest—much of it dry and brittle—is prime fire hazard territory. Add desiccated timber, abundant grass and dry undergrowth and wildfire conditions are ripe. Read how local agencies, environmental groups and the public are collaborating to protect northern New Mexico and restore forest health.

Read Manny's story

Tips for Dry Conditions

• If you drive and smoke in your vehicle, use the ashtray. Never flick cigarette butts out vehicle windows. In fact, never flick cigarette butts outdoors under any circumstances.
• To prevent accidental fires from exhaust systems or catalytic converters on cars, trucks, all-terrain vehicles, motor homes, and other spark-emitting equipment, keep vehicles off dry grass. Check spark arresters and be prepared if you must go off paved or cleared roads by having a shovel and fire extinguisher in your vehicle or equipment as a precaution if a fire should start.
• If you are camping and campfires are allowed, build fires only in approved, metal or concrete-lined fire pits in designated campgrounds. And most importantly, make sure your campfire is completely out and cold to the touch before leaving.

Visit the U.S. Fire Administration.