High temps increase wildfire danger

POLSON — The 2012 summer season has seen record high temperatures nationwide.

Speaking with Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) Division of Fire Chief Curt Matt, about the impact of the drought on the wild fire season, Matt stated that the wild fire season typically begins in July and lasts through September.

This season saw wildfires starting as early as March as a result of high temperatures in the area.

According to the Northern Rockies Coordination Center (NRCC), the number of wildfires in Montana has escalated from the 2011 season, which totaled 168,010 acres, to the current season total of 498,680 acres as of July 17, 2012.

The Division of Fire has eight dispatchers presently in the field, involved in fires in Wyoming and Bitterroot National Forest.

Matt says that the majority of the fires are caused by abandoned campfires but believes that if high temperatures persist there could possibly be an increase in lightning related fires.

As a result of the current weather conditions, open burning permits have been cancelled until further notice.

Matt went on to discuss the CSKT Division of Fire’s Management Plan which he says, “has received a good reception in the community by educating people on appropriate evacuation techniques and fire safety.”