Missoula County fire danger raised to moderate as burning stays open

MISSOULA, Mont. — The Missoula County Fire Protection Association announced fire danger in Missoula County rose to moderate today.

Warmer temperatures and drier vegetation drove the change, which took effect immediately, the association said. They warned that under moderate fire danger, fires can start easily in open dry grass and move fast when it is windy.

Residents and visitors are asked to be careful with any fire use. Officials said campfires should stay small and be fully put out before anyone leaves.

Betsy Pickhardt, community preparedness and fire prevention specialist for the Southwestern Land Office DNRC, urged people to take the conditions seriously.

“Despite the rain we have received these last few weeks, vegetation is dry and warm temperatures have raised conditions to moderate,” Pickhardt said. “Always extinguish campfires completely and do not burn piles on hot windy days.”

General, essential agriculture and prescribed wildland outdoor burning seasons remain open in Missoula County. Anyone planning to burn should check the condition of the pile, nearby vegetation and the forecast before starting.

The association also said people should activate their burn permit that same day, keep enough people, water and equipment on hand and stay with the fire until it is cold to the touch. Officials added that burn piles should not be built near tall grass, overhanging trees or structures.