Fire Danger Down this Week

Danielle Switalski

August 11. 2009, Plains, Montana - Fire danger for Sanders County is moving to the “Moderate” level as there was only one reported fire this week. The single lightening-induced fire, located up Thompson River, consumed 1/10 of an acre.

“I believe we are headed in the direction of keeping the fires at a moderate level given the reduced number and size of the fire,” said Dispatch Center Manager for the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), Ned Winebrenner.

Fire officials for the Missoula County Fire Protection Association (MCFPA) have also moved the fire danger to the “Moderate” level due to recent heavy rainfall and reduced temperatures.

“This isn’t the end, by any means, but we’ve definitely gotten a break” said Frank Maradeo, chairman of the MCFPA. “We still want people to be cautious. It’s wet now, but just three or four days of hot windy weather can still put us into High Fire Danger again.”

Winebrenner said they are anticipating fires to remain at the “Moderate” level in Sanders County this upcoming week, however, urges people to use caution and be aware of their surroundings as weather conditions in Montana can change quickly and drastically.

For more information on fires and safety, please visit http://dnrc.mt.gov.