Spring debris burning season now open

Spring debris burning season opened Wednesday, March 1.

Burning is a great way to clear dead vegetation and clean up," says C.T. Camel of the CSKT Division of Fire."

Before lighting piles or grass this spring, he urges people to take the necessary

precautions to make sure their burn does not become the next wildfire.

"Careless debris burning is one of the main causes of wildfire on the Flathead Indian Reservation," he said.

It is open burning season from March 1-April 30 on the reservation. Permits are required to burn from May 1-June 30; apply for a burn permit starting April 30,

at the Division of Fire website, csktfire.org.

Tips for safe burning:

• Burn early in the day and check weather for afternoon or next day wind conditions. • Have proper personnel, equipment, and a water supply and make sure the burned 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 all suppression, property costs if your fire escapes your control," says Camel.

For more information, all the Division of Fire at 406-676-2550 or follow on Facebook. CSKT Division of Fire.