One spark can wreck everything. Don’t be the reason.
Montana burns easily.
Every summer, wildfires rip through this state — sometimes from lightning, sometimes from accidents, and way too often from someone who didn't put out their campfire or dragged a busted chain down a dirt road.
When you are here, it's on you to know the rules.
Check local restrictions before you light anything. That includes campfires, barbecues, stoves, fireworks, flares, sparklers, roman candles, or whatever other bright ideas you brought with you.
If campfires are allowed, build them in established fire rings only.
Never leave a fire unattended. And when you're done, put it out like your next vacation depends on it. Drown it. Stir it. Drown it again. If it's still warm, it's still a threat.
Keep your vehicle maintained.
Don't park on dry grass. Make sure nothing under your vehicle is dragging or throwing sparks. Be mindful of hot exhaust near dry brush. It only takes a second for a spark to turn into a wildfire. And if you're shooting targets or burning debris, know the regulations and do it safely – or don't do it at all.
Fire danger isn't a backdrop.
It's real. So do your part or stay home. Montana doesn't have time for fire starters — accidental or otherwise. Don't screw it up.
Still have questions about not lighting this place on fire? Start with these up-to-date resources.
Montana Fire Restrictions
Under Stage 1 Restrictions, the following acts are prohibited:
Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire.
Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
Under Stage 2 Restrictions, the following acts are prohibited:
Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire.
Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
Operating motorized vehicles off designated roads and trails.
The following acts are prohibited from 1:00 pm to 1:00 am:
Operating any internal combustion engine.
Welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame.
Using an explosive.
For more information on fire restrictions in the state of Montana, please refer to mtfireinfo.org.
Did you know that many wildland fires start from vehicle use? Remembering these hot tips will help you #RecreateResponsibly this summer:
Exhaust can reach temperatures of 1000 + degrees, so avoid driving in or around dry grass.
Unmaintained vehicles shoot hot particles. Make sure your car, truck or OHV is maintained and suited for off-road adventures. Brakes worn too thin may cause metal-to-metal contact, which can cause a spark.
OHVs should have a spark arrestor. Drivers should pack a shovel and a bucket.
Practice safe towing. Dragging chains throws sparks. Use appropriate safety pins and hitch ball to secure chains. Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained, with nothing dragging on the ground.
