HOT SPRINGS – As Arkansas and Oklahoma fill up with visitors arriving to witness the upcoming eclipse, Forest Service officials are encouraging everyone to recreate responsibly and help prevent wildfires.
Fire managers are watching the weather closely for potential fire danger. Over the weekend, relative humidity will drop into critical conditions in front of an approaching weather front. Eclipse viewers can expect some gusty winds with low humidity, and though the grass has greened up, the pine and hardwood can still carry fire.
“One of the main causes of wildfire in the states of Arkansas and Oklahoma is escaped debris burning. Never burn debris or leaves on dry, windy days,” said Josh Graham, Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests’ Fire Management Officer. “It is vitally important that everyone be mindful of current conditions and remain vigilant with any activity that could create sparks. It is especially a concern during this event because emergency response to wildfires could be delayed due to the number of vehicles on the roadways over the next several days.”
With the right information and a little proactive care, communities and visitors can protect their families and forests from wildfire. Ensure that you know Smokey Bear’s rules for preventing wildfires:
If you have a campfire, keep it small and make sure to “Drown, stir, feel” to put it all the way out when you are done. “Only you can prevent wildfires!”
Report any wildfires to 911. The national forests will not be conducting prescribed burning activities between April 6-9, so if you see large areas of smoke, it could be from a wildfire.
Check for any county burn bans before you head out. Visit www.arkfireinfo.org and https://ag.ok.gov/divisions/forestry-services for current burn bans and wildfires.
Don’t park vehicles in tall grass during dry conditions – hot engines and exhaust pipes can cause fires in dry grass.
Keep campfire areas Firewise. Clear out a secure space around your campfire, and keep defensible space around your sleeping areas in the event of an escaped campfire or wildfire.
Don’t leave any campfires unattended – if you plan to leave it, make sure it is out cold by dousing it with water or smothering it with dirt.
