Prevent wildfires before they happen
Staff Writer
Gov. John E. Baldacci declared the third week of April as Wildfire Awareness Week. Although the week has passed, officials say the threat remains, despite rain and snow shower predicted through the end of the month.
FIRE PREVENTION tips and advice were free to those visiting the Maine Forest Service Exhibit at the Kiwanis Show at the Forum in Presque Isle April 17 and 18. Pictured at the event on April 17 is District Forest Ranger Robby Gross.
“It’s that time of year, when lightning strikes are possible,” said District Forest Ranger Robby Gross.
Maine typically has two fire seasons, with spring providing ample dead fuel, such as dried grass, that could easily catch fire. Spring also brings school vacations and more youth with time on their hands.
“Fuel is in a cured stage and is readily available,” said Forest Ranger Steve Wipperman. “We often see an increase in fires during weeks when juveniles are typically on vacation.”
Wipperman stressed the importance of parents teaching their children not to play with matches and the dangers of playing with fire.
While lightning can be blamed for some fires, the Maine Forest Service reports more often than not fires can be traced back to a human factor. In addition to cases involving juveniles, Wipperman said his department also sees several “escaped permit” fires.
“Those occur when a person who has obtained a permit to burn loses control and the fire spreads,” Wipperman said. “What people need to remember is, if it escapes, the person with the permit is responsible.”
Wipperman said there are guidelines in place that, if followed, help ensure fires don’t get out of hand.
“Burning after 5 p.m. is safer, when the winds go down and humidity goes up. You must have more than one adult present, with rakes, shovels and some source of water,” when working with a burn permit, he said. “And you shouldn’t burn grass when if winds are more than 5 mph.”
He said the guidelines are the same when burning brush, with a few exceptions.
“You can burn brush provided winds are under 10 mph. It’s best to clear a spot — get down to mineral soil and stack brush on top — and clear grass and brush away from the site. It’s important to keep it contained. And plan so you won’t have to leave for the night,” Wipperman. “Never leave a fire unattended and always double check your fire before leaving.”
Permits for burning in unorganized territories can be obtained from the MFS. Permits for organized towns can be obtained from the town warden or deputy town warden or through your local fire department. A fee may apply.
For more information, contact 435-7963 ext. 201.
