JACKSON, Wyo. — Yesterday, June 22, Teton Interagency fire managers elevated the fire danger rating to “very high” for the Bridger-Teton National Forest, Grand Teton National Park, National Elk Refuge, and remaining portions of the Teton Interagency Dispatch area.
Conditions in the Teton Interagency area are drying rapidly, and a fire may start easily, spread quickly and burn intensely. Everyone is asked to practice heightened fire safety at all times.
According to Teton Interagency Fire, during “very high” fire danger, fires start very easily from all causes and spread at a very fast rate. Spot fires are a constant danger. Fires burning in heavy fuels may quickly develop high-intensity characteristics, such as long-distance spotting and fire whirlwinds. Direct attack at the head of such fires is rarely possible after they have been burning for more than a few minutes.
Teton Interagency Fire personnel have extinguished 52 unattended or abandoned campfires so far this year, compared to 18 at this time in 2020.
The National Weather Service has indicated that hot and dry conditions will persist as the dominant trend in the coming weeks. These above-average conditions have stressed vegetation in the local area, accelerating seasonal drying. They have combined to increase the potential for fire activity across the Teton Interagency Fire area.
During times of elevated fire danger, a campfire is not encouraged.
Visitors and locals are reminded to:
- Be prepared with water and a shovel to extinguish your campfire.
- Do not park on tall grass as that grass can ignite when in contact with a hot vehicle.
- If trailering, ensure that your chains are clear of the ground as small sparks could start roadside fires.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- If you come across an abandoned campfire and it is within your power, please put it out and contact Teton Interagency Dispatch to report its location.
The use of fireworks is illegal in Teton County unless permitted through the special-event process through either the Town of Jackson or Teton County. These fireworks regulations play a critical role in fire prevention.
