No fire restrictions for Sheridan County, but Haswell has a few suggested safety practices

As of Friday, Aug.18, The Bighorn National Forest has listed the fire danger level as Moderate, but practicing good fire prevention techniques now can save time, effort and maybe lives in the future. 

According to the US Forest Service, when the fire danger is “moderate” it means that fires can start from most accidental causes, but the number of fire starts is usually pretty low. If a fire does start in an open, dry grassland, it will burn and spread quickly on windy days. Most wood fires will spread slowly to moderately.

The Sheridan area received an above normal amount of precipitation in the first months of the summer season. Although precipitation is usually good for the land, the amount of growth from possible fuel sources for fire is also higher than usual this year. 

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Sheridan County Commission Chair Christi Haswell told listeners she had a conversion with Sheridan County Fire Warden Chris Thomas, who gave her some suggestions for local producers to help ensure fire safety. 

Haswell also asked residents to ensure trailer chains were secured, do not drive on dry grass as mufflers can cause grasses to combust. She also requested residents do not use exploding targets while conducting live fire exercises for shooting practice.