Local fire officials offer guidance for ‘Wildfire Awareness Month’ and beyond

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock and the governors of 10 other western states have proclaimed May as Wildfire Awareness Month.

“Spring is an ideal time to raise awareness about how we can all help improve our communities wildfire preparedness and learn what risk reduction steps we can take to prepare our families and properties for wildfire,” states a news release from the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

According to the news release, ways to prevent and prepare for wildfires include cleaning out gutters, roofs and other areas where debris has settled; avoiding burning on windy days and never leaving a burn pile unattended; and keeping the space around homes — known as the home ignition zone — clear of dense vegetation.