Nearly 80% of wildfires in New Mexico are caused by human activity. While we can’t control lightning strikes, we can take proactive steps to reduce the number of fires sparked by careless human actions.
Utah’s success in wildfire prevention offers a model for New Mexico. In 2020, Utah partnered with an advertising agency to create a campaign called FireSense. By targeting the top causes of human-caused wildfires, including outdoor equipment use and campfires, the campaign reduced human-caused wildfires by 75% within three years. This shows that prevention messaging works.
Laura McCarthy
New Mexico’s Smokey Bear program is another example of the value of prevention messaging. We can build on this foundation, reaching even larger audiences with consistent reminders. Doing so could have a major impact on protecting New Mexico’s resources, homes, businesses and residents.
In our state, the top causes of human-caused wildfires are equipment use, debris burning, and campfires. “Equipment use” includes power tools like chainsaws and welding equipment that can spark a fire when used outside. Vehicles parked over dry grass along the side of the road also pose a risk. The list is long, but the solution is clear: prevention.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s budget recommendation for next year includes a special appropriation to the Forestry Division to implement a program like Utah’s FireSense. The goal is to engage the public on a broad level, making New Mexico’s residents aware of how they can become part of the wildfire prevention solution. Ads on TV, radio, and billboards, echoing and building upon the decades-old message, “Only you can prevent forest fires” could preserve New Mexico’s forests and wildlands.
No matter who delivers the message, the key is understanding that our actions can prevent over 75% of the state’s wildfires. Taking responsibility for these actions will benefit current and future generations.
Make sure your campfire is cold and out. Don’t use power tools that produce sparks outdoors on windy days. Use the weather app on your phone to stay informed about Red Flag weather conditions in your area. Remember that five feet of vegetation-free space around the walls of your home will help defend against a wildfire’s ember wash. Talk to your neighbors and others in your community about wildfire prevention—it will make a big difference. Teamwork leads to success.
Wildfires can easily seem like someone else’s problem—something we don’t have to worry about because it won’t happen in our neighborhood. But luck only lasts so long. Scientists are forecasting an increase in both the number and severity of wildfires in the coming years.
We can make a difference. Support this educational campaign, and take time during these short winter days to think about how you can help prevent wildfires when the weather warms again. New Mexico’s residents—who all love our forests and open spaces—will be forever grateful.
This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Reviving a proven campaign to prevent wildfires in New Mexico