Montana

FWP issues fire danger reminder for Montana hunters

Posted: Sep 25, 2012 10:12 AM by MTN News
Updated: Sep 25, 2012 11:33 AM

HELENA - State wildlife officials are reminding hunters to use extra care when heading out because of the extreme fire danger that exists in much of Montana.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials advise that hunters check in with the nearest regional FWP office before making final plans. All hunters also must be prepared to prevent wildfire statewide.

"Hunters have a responsibility to be fire conscious," said Ron Aasheim, FWP spokesman in Helena. "It is a matter of human safety and it's our civic duty to be ready to protect the public and private lands we all enjoy."

FWP says hunters should drive only on established roads, avoid roads with tall vegetation in the middle track, never park over dry grass or other vegetation, carry a fire extinguisher-or water-filled weed sprayer-shovel, axe and have a cell phone for communications in addition to other outdoor safety gear.

Hunters are also advised to limit any camping to designated camping areas, not to build campfires and to smoke only inside buildings or vehicles.