5 Wildfire Mistakes Oklahomans Must Avoid This Week

Even without a burn ban, The Comanche County Emergency Services strongly discourages anyone from burning this week.

Dry grass, high winds, and little to no rainfall have created conditions that could cause a spark to a fast-moving wildfire, like the Rush Fire of 2024.

According to the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management, nine out of ten wildfires are started because of people. But, that number could change by avoiding these simple mistakes that easily start fires.

Avoid Parking On Dry Grass

We've seen it happen frequently in the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge. People visiting will want to get out of their vehicle to check things out; instead of finding a shoulder or parking area, they just pull over.

But the tall, dead grass on the refuge is the perfect kindling for a hot engine in a car. A hot exhaust system can ignite dry grass in minutes - especially on windy days.

Take the time to find a concrete area to park, and don't be afraid to walk to wherever it is you want to explore. It's better to burn some calories than to burn the refuge, or any part of Oklahoma.

Don't Burn Your Trash On Windy Days

Some people opt to burn their trash instead of paying for a dumpster; or, they live in an area that a trash pick-up service isn't available. But that isn't the issue - burning trash on a windy day is.

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One spark is all it takes, and it could happen far away from where your fire is sitting. Instead, burn your trash on calm days with little to no wind at all.

Stop Throwing Your Cigarette From Your Vehicle

This one is one of the most frustrating because it's the most preventable. If you choose to smoke, simply douse your cigarette in an ash tray in your vehicle.

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Psa: The world is NOT your trash can
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Cigarettes thrown from vehicles is one of the leading causes in the nation for wildfires, despite how preventable they truly are.

Stay With Your Fire, Never Leave It Unattended

The easiest way for things to get out of control quickly happens when you aren't paying attention. A gust of wind or embers shifting suddenly can spread flames beyond your control in seconds.

Always stay with your fire. And if you're leaving, ensure that it is extinguished completely, no embers glowing at all.

Major Mistake: Dragging Chains On The Highway

A couple of extra checks before driving could be the difference an uneventful day and a major disaster. Chains dragging on the pavement while you drive may not seem like a big deal, but the sparks that shoot from the chains can easily catch the roadside on fire.

Share this with a friend before making plans this week - one spark is all it takes.