For
Immediate Release: July 16, 2018 2 p.m.
Highway 33 Fire caused by boat
trailer
Twitter: @BLMIdahoFire
(#Hwy33Fire, #BLMIFDFire)
(#Hwy33Fire, #BLMIFDFire)
HOWE, Idaho – The Highway
33 Fire started July 12, 2018 at approximately 9:30 a.m. burning a total of 77
acres on BLM and INL lands. Nineteen small fires sparked along Highway 33, milepost
2 to milepost 11, from a boat trailer’s wheel dragging.
“As you pack up to travel, take a few
moments to reduce the chance of igniting sparks along the way,” said Fire
Management Officer Joel Gosswiller “by inspecting your vehicle and trailer for
dragging metal and performing regular maintenance.”
Prevent vehicle-caused wildfires by
following these safety tips:
1.
Ensure all parts of your vehicle are
secure and not dragging. A loose safety chain or muffler striking a rock or
pavement will send a shower of sparks into dry vegetation.
2.
Take the time to check your tire
pressure and look for indicators of wear and tear on a tire. Driving on an
exposed wheel rim throws sparks. Poorly lubricated wheel bearings can overheat
and ignite, and worn-out brakes can drop hot material into the grass.
3.
Take the time to maintain and clean
exhaust systems and spark arresters. Engine compartments can collect debris and
ignite a spark. Worn out catalytic converters can degrade and cast off hot
pieces of material. A faulty spark arrestor can shed hot metal.
4.
Equip your vehicle with spark
arresters. Avoid driving your vehicle off-road when it's hot and dry because
that will increase your chances of starting a fire. If you drive an off-road vehicle,
such as an ATV/UTV, particles can fly out through the exhaust system.
5.
Oil and transmission fluid are
highly flammable. If you notice your vehicle leaking, it’s time for a
maintenance check.
The BLM wants to remind you to have a fire extinguisher with
you and know how to use it. Grass burns at an accelerated rate and is dangerous
to firefighters and the public. If you accidentally ignite the grass on fire,
call 911!
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