Fire season brings 'Red Flag' warnings Published March 29, 2013 By Kirtland AFB Fire Department KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- The U.S. National Weather Service issues "Red Flag Warnings" and/or "Fire Weather Warnings" when weather conditions reach high potential for extreme wildfire, which can lead to uncontrolled forest fires. These conditions exist when the relative humidity is very low, winds are high, and dry lightning strikes may occur. During a Red Flag Warning, high fire danger exists with increased probability of quickly spreading vegetation fires. For the most current information, refer to the NWS webpage: http://www.srh.noaa.gov/abq/. Actions to take during Red Flag and Fire Weather Warnings: - Consider deferring mission-related tests/training/actions that create fire dangers - Don't use open fires or flame/spark-producing devices - Smoke only in designated areas or inside personal vehicles - Don't operate off-road vehicles -- stay on paved roads (except emergency/security vehicles) The drought in New Mexico continues, which increases the potential and severity of wildland fires. Spring is here and summer is on the horizon, with opportunities to get outside and enjoy forests, campgrounds and backyards. This means firing up barbecue grills, camp stoves and fire pits. Inadequate risk management, coupled with lack of attention to detail, can set the stage for a fire disaster. Everyone is responsible for preventing wildland fires -- think before you light that fire. Some fire-prevention tips: Equipment safety · Never use spark-producing equipment in dry vegetation · Use spark arresters on all portable gasoline-powered equipment · Don't drive or park your vehicle on areas with dry vegetation Campfire safety · Before starting a campfire, make sure campfires are permitted on the land you are visiting · Ensure that your campfire is properly extinguished before you leave the site, even briefly Defensible space · Residents should make sure they have 100 feet of defensible space around structures · Clear dead weeds and vegetation · Remove leaves and needles from gutters · Trim branches 6 feet from the ground Other safety control measures · Properly extinguish and dispose of smoking materials · Coordinate planned fires, such as trash or vegetation, with the local fire department before starting them