While dozens of wildfires burn all over Montana and the western U.S., Jefferson County has been fortunate thus far this year. Major wildfires are not unknown in the county, though. In 1988 the Warm Springs Fire sent flames high into the air, visible from Helena, and led to evacuations in northern Jefferson County. In 2000 two major fires, dubbed the Boulder Hill Fire and the High Ore Fire, raced across thousands of acres. The county was lucky both times, with no one killed and few structures damaged. But else- wherein the state and nation, the outcomes have not always been so positive. To help homeowners and others be wise about preparing for the chance a wildfire may come along, Ready.gov offers these tips.
WHAT Wildfires can cause death or injury to people and animals, damage or destroy structures, and disrupt community services including transportation, gas, power, communications, and other services. The impact may cover large areas with extensive burning, embers traveling more than a mile away from the wildfire itself, and smoke causing health issues for people far away from the fire. Wildfires damage watersheds leave areas prone to flooding and mudslides for many years.
WHERE Wildfires can occur anywhere in the country. They can start in remote wilderness areas, in national parks, or even in your back yard. Wildfires can start from natural causes, such as lightning, but most are caused by humans, either accidentally — from cigarettes, campfires, or outdoor burning — or intentionally.
