The Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office gave tips to ensure “safe agricultural burning” after an increase in “human-caused” fires in Montezuma, Dolores, La Plata and Archuleta counties in the past few weeks.
The news release from the Sheriff’s Office was provided by the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control.
Many of these burns, according to the release, were a result of “escaped agricultural burns.”
“While no red flag warnings have been issued, fuels in the lower elevations of Southwest Colorado are abnormally dry and receptive to burning, especially in windy conditions,” DFPC said. “Please exercise caution when burning ditches or fields, and do your homework before you start.”
Tips for safe agricultural burning were also provided. The first step included evaluating the conditions. If the wind is blowing and the condition are dry, it isn’t safe to burn. They suggest burning on low-wind days and in the morning, as humidity is higher in the morning than in the afternoon.
They also advised those planning on burning should have helpers and make time to inform their neighbors and 911 dispatch about the planned burn. Burn into the wind to prevent rapid spread and keep debris piles small rather than burning everything all at once. Burn barrels should also e covered with a weighted metal cover with holes no larger than 3/4 inch.
Fire should never be left unattended, and someone should stay with the fire until the flames have completely been dissipated.
Lastly, a water source and adequate tools or equipment should be on hand to extinguish the fire, in case of unplanned spread. If the burn gets out of hand, call 911 immediately.
