Utah fire agencies ramp up wildfire preparedness as wildfire season gets underway
Jun 3, 2025, 2:10 PM | Updated: Jun 19, 2025, 11:36 am
SALT LAKE CITY — Depending on where you live in Utah, you could already be at risk for wildfires. A new map from the Federal Emergency Management Agency highlights the areas of greatest concern. Counties like Washington, Iron, Tooele, Utah, Summit and Salt Lake are among those facing elevated danger.
Fire agencies across the state are not waiting for flames to appear — they’re already hard at work preparing.
Related: Southern Utah could see more wildfires this year
“We prepare for the worst and hope for the best,” said Salt Lake City Fire Division Chief Bob Silverthorne.
Over the weekend, Salt Lake City firefighters canvassed neighborhoods, distributing “Ready, Set, Go” flyers — part of a campaign to help residents understand how to create defensible space around their homes and be ready to evacuate if needed.
“I would say that we have a heightened level of awareness this year,” Silverthorne added. “You’ve got to get your stuff and get out.”
The Unified Fire Authority is also stepping up efforts with its “Fire Wise” campaign. Crews have been clearing brush and dead debris in high-risk areas.
Related: Officials warn Utahns to have ‘fire sense’ ahead of upcoming wildfire season
“We’ve got (a) different range of fuels that go up to right where homes are at,” said Kelly Bird, Unified Fire Authority spokesperson.
Bird noted the unique conditions Utah faces this year.
“We kind of have a recipe here for some potential to really happen,” Bird said. “These are steps to eliminate hazards, eliminate fuels that could potentially cause a larger risk for you and your home.”
Salt Lake City Fire also offers free home evaluations to help residents understand what steps they can take to better protect their property.
To schedule an evaluation or learn more about wildfire preparedness, visit slcfire.com and click on the wildland tab.
