SALT LAKE CITY — While Utah has all the ingredients for a destructive wildfire season, what ultimately happens really depends on the decisions we all make.
Utah is a beautiful state with towering mountains and incredible views, but due to its dry climate and abundance of vegetation, it is susceptible to wildfires.
Each year, Utah sees an average of more than 1,000 new wildfires, with tens of thousands of acres burned; It may come as a surprise that the vast majority of wildfires in the Beehive State are human-caused.
In recent years, according to Utah Fire Information90% of wildfires in Utah were caused by human actions.
The Utah Fire Info website is a collaborative effort between local, state and federal agencies to help identify and document what is happening in our state regarding fires.
Everyone plays a role
Kayli Guild, with the Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands, said all residents play a role in being alert for fires.
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“It is everyone’s responsibility to use common sense when it comes to any type of recreation that may involve fire,” Guild said.
While Guild said the number of human-caused fires has decreased in recent years, there is still a long way to go.
“As far as the sense of fire goes, since we started in 2021,” Guild said. “We’ve seen a decline in human-caused starts, but we’re not yet at the point where we’d like it to be.”
Things like tow chains dragging on an open road, a bouncing bullet, or fireworks can start a wildfire.
“There are a number of other opportunities besides ensuring your vehicle is maintained,” Guild said. “We see too many fires caused by blown tires or faulty brakes.”
While the risk of wildfire will never be completely eliminated in Utah, the actions of individuals can go a long way toward reducing potential impacts.
“So it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep Utah beautiful,” Guild said. “Let’s make sure to use our fire sense.”
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