Spring burning by permit season starts May 1

A permit to burn dead vegetation on the Flathead Indian Reservation is required from May 1 to June 30. Permit applications may be submitted at the CSKT Division of Fire website, csktfire.org.

Before you light your piles or grass this spring, take the necessary precautions to ensure your burn does not become the next wildfire. Careless debris burning is the No. 1 cause of wildfire on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

If you intend to burn, have in place:

• A current weather forecast for your local area
• Water source (such as a hose, buckets, pond or lake)
• Fire tools or equipment depending on the size of your burn
• Enough help to respond in the event that fire behavior increases.

Burn early in the day and check the weather for the afternoon or next day wind conditions. Do not burn when high or erratic winds are forecast or dry conditions prevail. Have proper personnel, equipment and water supply with you, and always make sure the area is cold to the touch before leaving. Checking the following day is also important as stumps or roots may be holding heat that could re-ignite.

If a fire does get out of control call 911 immediately.

Remember you are responsible for any and all suppression, property costs if your fire escapes your control.

If you have any questions about debris burning call the Division of Fire at 676-2550.