May is Wildfire Awareness Month

Governor Mark Gordon signed a proclamation this week that encourages all citizens to observe and take steps to better prepare their communities and households from wildfires.

Wyoming is continuing to experience an increase in the number of human caused wildfires throughout the state, increasing wildfire risk to property, infrastructure, and communities. The wildland-urban interface has also increased, elevating the need for continued wildfire preparedness and prevention efforts.

Cody Fire Marshal Sam Wilde says it’s the time of year when people are doing spring clean up, so now is an appropriate time to create a defensible space around their homes.

Additionally, Wilde says it is important to be aware of how to prevent a wildfire from starting and the common causes of human induced wildfires, such as dragging chains on vehicles pulling trailers, burning debris, discarding cigarettes, and power equipment such as chainsaws and welding activities.

Wildfire management in Wyoming is an inter-agency effort with local, state, and federal agencies. Together, the agencies coordinate on wildfire safety and help create resilient Wyoming communities.