BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET ) — As wildfires sweep across Western North Dakota, state wildlife and outdoor officials are taking the opportunity to remind people that safety in dry conditions is no laughing matter.

According to the Department of Game and Fish, while hunters and recreational outdoorsmen should always be wary of daily fire indexes, the recent dry conditions and wildfires — combined with the fact that hunters will be out in droves this weekend during pheasant season — make proper safety procedures even more important.

“While hunters are always our eyes and ears in North Dakota’s rural areas in fall, it will be especially true this weekend with the highly anticipated pheasant season opening,” said Jeb Williams, North Dakota Game and Fish Department Director. “We encourage hunters who spot a fire caused by whatever means to report the situation immediately to law enforcement officials. We also encourage hunters to carry fire extinguishers, shovels, water, and other tools. And it goes without saying to extinguish and discard smoking materials appropriately, not from a vehicle.”

Williams adds that individuals who are not trained firefighters should never attempt to battle a fire that has gone out of control.

Although nobody can predict when exactly a fire may break out, there are multiple things one can do to lower the risk of one. Below is a small list of tips for those seeking to venture into the great outdoors this fall.

• Be aware of all current burn restrictions in your community or camping area.
• Make sure no chains are dragging when hauling boats, campers, or trailers.
• Never drive or park vehicles (including OHVs) on dry grass.
• Never leave campfires unattended, and always make sure they are completely extinguished.

“Anyone recreating outdoors is asked to remain vigilant as dry conditions and wildfire risk remain high,” said North Dakota Parks and Recreation Director Cody Schulz. “We are grateful for the numerous first responders, local officials, and landowners for their efforts to battle these wildfires, and we encourage everyone that if they see something – a spark that ignites nearby grasses, or smoke in any vegetation or trees – to say something immediately by calling 9-1-1.”

At the end of the day, an elevated fire danger index will always influence outdoor activities — which is why it’s important to understand the risk at all times. To view the most up-to-date version of the wildfires and fire danger index, visit NDResponse.gov .

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