Do Your Part, Don’t Let a Wildfire Start

On Thursday, February 27, the Savannah River Site Fire Department and USDA Forest Service Savannah River responded to a small fire near building 766-H that had ignited alongside the road in a slightly wooded area. While the ignition source has yet to be identified, there were no adverse weather or other natural ignition causes in the area. What is known is that over 90% of wildland fires are caused by humans.

Typically, the greatest risk of a wildland fire occurs from February through May in the Southeastern U.S., as those are the dryest weather months of the year. This year is no different. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, run by the University of Nebraska, Aiken and the surrounding communities are already in an abnormally dry period. Moisture conditions are not expected to improve before May.

Site employees are asked to be extra vigilant at work, in their cars, at home, and when spending time in the woods.

• If you choose to smoke outside or in your car, make sure your cigarette is dead out before disposing it in an appropriate location.
• When towing another vehicle, ensure your brakes, tires, and chains are in good working order, and do not let your chains drag on the road.
• If you have a fire outside, never leave it unattended. Have a rake or shovel nearby and plenty of water available to put it out. Remember to drown, stir, feel, and repeat until it’s out cold.
• If you are driving and you encounter smoke on the roadway, slow down and keep a close eye for emergency response vehicles or other drivers who may have reduced their speed because of poor visibility. Keep an eye out for wildlife as well who may be crossing the roads.
• Check your local weather service before deciding to have a fire outside or burn yard debris. Make sure there are no fire danger warnings in effect and always follow your local, county, or state guidelines regarding required notifications before starting any fire.
• If you come across a wildfire on site, please contact SRSOC at 803-725-3911. If you come across a wildfire off site, please call 911.

Remember, a wildfire can happen anywhere, even if you are being careful – so remain vigilant. Visit Smokey Bear at https://www.smokeybear.com/ for more fire prevention tips, great family information about preventing wildfires, and how to safely burn your yard debris.