Firefighters train in southern Utah for robust wildfire season
May 3, 2021, 2:13 PM
SALT LAKE CITY — Firefighters gathered Saturday in Cedar City to train for a robust wildfire season as part of Community Wildfire Preparedness Day.
“We’re on the front side of a fire season that could be really, really robust,” said Greg Bartin, Zion National Park fire manager officer. “Right now, it feels like its mid-to late-June, and it’s May 1.”
Utah has seen 100 wildfires so far in 2021.
Follow these steps to protect home from wildfire
Firefighters would like homeowners to prepare by following these tips:
- Clear any flammable debris — such as grass cuttings or leaf piles — from your property.
- Make sure your lawn is mowed and watered.
- Create a defensible space surrounding your property.
- Keep trees and shrubs at least 5 feet from your house.
- Trees should not be planted in clusters but instead spaced out.
- Make a plan for your family and pets in case you have to evacuate.
- Know at least two ways out of your neighborhood and designate a meeting place.