GOSHEN COUNTY – A spate of wildfires in the county in recent weeks has prompted recommendations from the county fire warden.
“On behalf of the Goshen County Commissioners and each of the Fire Departments in Goshen County, I wish to remind you of the extreme importance of using caution when performing planned and controlled burns,” Fire Warden Bill Law said in a release Tuesday.
“The conditions this time of year are optimal for burning ditches and debris piles,” he said in the release. “Unfortunately, they are also prone to changing wind directions and speed velocities, changes that can catch you off guard and result in planned burns spreading out of control.”
As Wyoming’s ever-present wind further dries already brown vegetation, motorists also need to be cautious where they park their vehicles along roadways and other locations. Hot exhaust parts can be sufficient to spark a fire, Law said.
Further care also needs to be taken with campfires as warmer, spring-like weather makes getting away to the wilderness an attractive option, particularly as an escape to social distancing recommendations in the wake of the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic.
“During these times of social separation, you may be considering more time spent out away from folks and more time recreating in camp sites with campfires,” Law said. “Please never leave a campfire unattended and make certain that you leave no smoldering embers when you depart.”
Conditions have yet to warrant issuance of official fire restrictions or burn bans by the Goshen County Commissioners. That will most likely change along with the weather, Law said.
“Although there are no fire restrictions in place by the Fire Warden and County Commissioners at this time, you are encouraged to stay informed as those restrictions will no doubt be coming in the not too distant future,” Law said. “As the weather continues to warm up, outside activities will continue to increase. Make certain you are doing your part to protect our lands and personal properties.”
