Wildfires are frequent in Arizona, closing highways and highways, but firefighters are trying to put them out and eventually extinguish them.
If you go on a road trip in the summer, sooner or later you’ll find yourself driving past or near wildfires, especially in rural and wooded areas of the state. We asked officials about the best etiquette for drivers on roads near wildfires.
Driving in bushfires should be avoided at all costs and should only be used as a last resort. The Arizona Forestry and Fire Department recommends that you always call 911 and do not attempt to put out the fire yourself, as it is extremely dangerous.
How should I drive near wildfires?
Regarding overall vehicle etiquette, the Pima County Sheriff’s Office advises road users to:
- Do not put yourself or others in danger by lingering to take pictures or videos.
- Wind direction can change suddenly and often (be prepared for road closures).
- Visibility changes rapidly with wind and flame strength.
- Drive with your headlights on.
- Always maintain a safe following distance.
- Please drive with the windows open.
- Avoid that area or situation as much as possible.
Arizona wildfire resources:A Guide to Preparing Your Home and Family for Fire
DriversEd.comAn online driver education provider that offers licensure courses in more than 30 states shares the sentiment of wanting to avoid this region at all costs.
However, if you do need to move forward, this site recommends the following guidelines:
- Keep your petrol tank full to avoid running out of fuel when escaping.
- Set the air conditioner to the recirculation setting and close all vents.
- Wrap exposed skin in a dry cloth to block radiant heat.
What should I do if I have to evacuate in my car from a rapidly progressing fire?
Taking shelter in a car is a way to prolong a fire if movement inside the car becomes impossible. To do that, you’ll need to make sure you’re in the best position to wait for the fire to go out.
- Park in a vacant lot or parking lot, away from debris and vegetation.
- Lie on the floor with the engine running.
- Cover yourself with a woolen blanket or jacket.
- If you haven’t called 911 yet, call 911.
How to keep your car from starting wildfires
A fallen cigarette, a truck dragging chains, etc. can start a wildfire while driving. It is important to handle your vehicle carefully to prevent wildfires from occurring. Arizona Department of Transportation Remind drivers to:
- Never park in tall dry grass or bushes.
- Make sure the tow chain is securely fastened and do not replace any parts while towing.
- Check tire pressure before riding (exposed rims can cause sparks).
- Do not throw lit cigarettes out the window.
