Scottsdale Fire asks construction crews to stop starting brush fires

Construction-related hot work has sparked two brush fires in Scottsdale in one week, though both were quickly extinguished, according to the Scottsdale Fire Department.

Hot work refers to temporary operations that create flames, intense heat or sparks, such as welding, cutting and grinding. Fire officials said those tasks are especially dangerous during hot, dry conditions.

After brush patrol units spotted smoke twice in a short period, authorities are urging construction crews to use “extreme caution” during any hot work because sparks can easily ignite dry grass and brush.

The warning comes as two major wildfires continue burning in Arizona. Near Sedona, the Pocket Fire has grown to more than 15,000 acres with no containment, while the Sycamore Fire had burned 11,939 acres and is 68% contained as of Tuesday.

What can construction crews do to prevent wildfires?

The Scottsdale Fire Department is urging construction crews to take extra precautions during fire season to reduce wildfire risk.

Recommended steps include:

• Keeping fire hydrants and emergency access routes clear
• Removing dry grass, weeds and other flammable materials
• Maintaining cleared vegetation buffers around structures and along driveways
• Restricting smoking on job sites
• Limiting welding and cutting to cleared areas

Fire officials also recommend placing spotters nearby to watch for sparks and potential fires. Additionally, crews should keep fire extinguishers and water hoses readily available and call 911 immediately if they see fire or smoke.

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