WILDFIRE

Utah is seeing more blazes, many are human-caused wildfires

Jun 25, 2024, 4:00 PM

The Little Twist fire, a human-caused wildfire, which has been burning for more than a week, has gr...

The Little Twist wildfire, which has been burning for more than a week, has grown to 2,398 acres, and is 10% contained. (Utah Fire Info)

(Utah Fire Info)

SALT LAKE CITY –  According to the U.S. Forest Service, 330 fires have already scorched areas of Utah this season. According to the National Park Service, roughly 86% of the blazes recorded nationally each year are human-caused wildfires. 

At this time last year, only 155 had been reported. The five-year wildfire average for Utah is 1,082. 

Related: Prevent your campfire from turning wild

Cars and human-caused wildfires 

There are several ways that human-caused wildfires begin. 

Rogue campfires are a commonly mentioned example, however, poorly maintained vehicles are another common culprit. 

According to the Bureau of Land Management, vehicles can emit sparks, specifically if they are poorly maintained. Before you take them into areas where a spark could ignite a fire, make sure they are up to date on mechanical maintenance. 

Additionally, do not park or drive over dry grass, especially when you are off-roading. Per the BLM, the exhaust pipe of off-road vehicles can reach over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. 

On the topic of vehicles, Utah Fire Sense also said that dragging chains can emit sparks. If they find their way into dry plants on the side of a road, a wildfire can ignite. 

Other sparks can cause danger

The NPS said that incorrectly discarded cigarettes are another common cause of wildfire.

The United States Fire Administration said that cigarettes should always be put out in an ashtray or bucket of sand. Never flick them into dry plants. 

Related: Zion National Park to introduce campfire and smoking restrictions

Fireworks are another common cause of wildfire, especially around the 4th and 24th of July holidays. 

The BLM said you should always check the fireworks regulations for the area you wish to set them off in. Do not light them near dry plants. 

Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully. Never re-ignite them, even if they do not work. Make sure you have plenty of water to douse them in after they are finished. 

Finally, dispose of your fireworks by soaking them in water. 

If you witness a wildfire, you can report it by dialing 911 or contacting an Interagency Fire Dispatch Center. 

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Wildfire

...

Kyle Remund

Tooele brush fire put out by fire crews

A brush fire spotted by an anonymous citizen in Tooele County was quickly brought under control by firefighters Saturday afternoon.

15 days ago

(Chopper 5)...

Jacob Freeman, KSL TV

Yellow Lake Fire 45% contained with more snow coming

The Yellow Lake Fire is at 45% containment and snow is expected to hit the area on Monday, helping to decrease the fire.

16 days ago

Kamas Valley - Yellow Lake fire smoke out....

Jacob Freeman, KSLTV

Evacuations lifted after snow spells good news for Yellow Lake Fire

There are now 433 personnel working on extinguishing the Yellow Lake Fire as the fire slows and evacuations are lifted due to snow and rain.

23 days ago

The Yellow Lake Fire is human-caused...

ALEX CABRERO AND LARRY D. CURTIS, KSL TV

Utah town Hanna praying for snow as Yellow Lake Fire looms

People in of Hanna are hoping for snow. They’ve been on constant alert to prepare to evacuate because of the Yellow Lake Fire burning nearby.

25 days ago

Smoke inversion clouds the air in a valley near the Yellow Lake Fire...

Allessandra Harris Gurr

Upcoming storm could mitigate current fire danger in Utah

Firefighters could finally get a break this weekend with an upcoming storm that is expected to curb current fire danger and wildfires.

26 days ago

The Yellow Lake Fire in the Uinta mountains as it burned through the fall forestry on Sept. 29, 202...

Adam Small

Could the incoming storm help contain the Yellow Lake Fire?

The Yellow Lake Fire continues to burn having consumed over 30,000 acres, could an incoming storm help contain it.

28 days ago

Sponsored Articles

A surprise gift, wrapped and ready to bring holiday cheer! Whether for Christmas, a birthday, or an...

Western Nut

10 Holiday Gift Ideas to cover everyone on your list

This guide is for you if you need holiday gift ideas that will make a lasting impression. 

Stressed young woman checking bills, taxes, bank account balance and calculating expenses in the li...

The Law Offices of Jordan F. Wilcox

Why you should speak to a Utah lawyer about longstanding IRS tax issues

Hiring a lawyer to navigate longstanding IRS tax issues can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable resolution.

4 construction workers fixing roof against clouds blue sky, install shingles at the top of the hous...

Chipman Roofing

Weather the storms by maintaining your roof

By taking the time to assess your roof's condition and make repairs as needed, you maintain the longevity of your home's stability.

Tax Harassment...

The Law Offices of Jordan F. Wilcox

Feeling intimidated by the IRS? 6 Essential facts you should know.

If you are receiving threatening letters and wage garnishments from the IRS, hiring an attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.

Photo courtesy of Nightmare on 13th...

Nightmare on 13th

Here’s why Nightmare on 13th is the best haunted house in Utah

Fall brings Halloween, and Halloween brings Haunted Houses. There’s no better Haunted House than Nightmare on 13th – here’s why!

USA, Utah, Bear Lake. The deep blue of Utah's Bear Lake contrasts with autumn foliage....

Bear Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau

Experience Bear Lake’s all-year activities

We break down Bear Lake's four-season recreational offerings so the whole family can enjoy their time there any time of the year.

Utah is seeing more blazes, many are human-caused wildfires