Wildfire safety tips from Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management

 

STAY SAFE

Wildfires are often caused by human activity. High winds and dry conditions can set the stage for potentially severe fires. The greatest single cause is when burning debris is not properly contained and sparks or burning trash blow into the air.

Oklahomans can help prevent fires if they:

- Be careful when pulling off a road or driving into a field. Hot catalytic converters can ignite vegetation.

- Avoid burning trash. Even a barrel covered with a screen can allow a spark to escape, igniting nearby vegetation.

- If you smoke in your car, extinguish cigarettes in vehicle ashtrays. Never toss a cigarette out of a car window, and don’t put cigarettes out on the ground.

- Keep a fire extinguisher and water handy when working outdoors with equipment that gets hot, or involves sparks, such as welding equipment. Water down outdoor work areas in advance if possible.

If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Choose a route away from the fire hazard and be alert to changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke. 

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