ADOT shares tips to help drivers prevent wildfires this summer

Wildfire season in Arizona is no longer a season. It is a year-round threat.

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is sharing tips drivers can use to keep it from getting worse.

In just the past two weeks, the Hazen and Horseshoe fires have broken out across the state, along with several smaller brush fires, including one that shut down U.S. 60 near Wickenburg on Monday.

While the causes of those fires haven’t been determined, ADOT is urging motorists to take simple steps to avoid sparking the next one as temperatures climb and conditions dry out.

“Temperatures are heating up in Arizona. With that comes the increased potential for brush fires,” ADOT spokesperson Kelsey Mo told KTAR News 92.3 FM. “While wildland fires can happen year-round, seasonal changes in weather conditions in the summer can increase that risk.”

Mo offered drivers a few easy steps to reduce the chance of igniting a brush fire, starting with properly securing trailer chains.

“Ensure that your trailer chains are securely attached. Don’t drag chains, because those loose chains, if they drag on the pavement, can shoot off sparks into the dry grass,” Mo said.

She also warned against pulling off into dry grass or vegetation.

“We also tell motorists to avoid parking on dry grass or driving through tall grass because the heat from the underside of your vehicle can start a fire,” Mo said. “And also, never throw a cigarette outside of your vehicle.”

As crews are still working to extinguish wildfires, Mo said the next one can be avoided.

“It only takes one spark to start a wildfire, and so we all have a shared responsibility to help reduce or prevent that risk,” Mo said.

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