April 4, 2024

With summer just around the corner, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management is promoting roadside fire prevention.

Officials say that last year, roadside fires—caused by dragging trailer chains, tire blowouts and overheating vehicles—accounted for over a quarter of all wildfires in Arizona, often shutting down major highways.

Department personnel, along with state and federal partners, will be at the Sunset Point Rest Area on Friday, educating the public about checking your vehicle’s fluids and tires before you hit the road; and making sure nothing from your vehicle is dragging on the pavement. And never pull off the road into tall vegetation, as the hot underside of your vehicle can spark a fire.

Josh Freeman | KAZM News Director | josh@mellowmountainradio.com