Fire chiefs issue safety advisory in response to critical fire danger in Cheyenne County

POTTER - Fire chiefs across Cheyenne County issued an urgent advisory Sunday afternoon warning residents and visitors of critical fire danger conditions currently facing the region. With exceptionally dry conditions, any open flames or sparks have the potential to rapidly spread.

In response to the heightened fire risk, fire departments in Dalton, Gurley, Lodgepole, Potter and Sidney recommended people avoid engaging in activities involving open flames, including the use of burn barrels, burn pits, campfires, charcoal grills and fire pits. 

As hunting season approaches, outdoor enthusiasts are urged to exercise extra caution and avoid driving vehicles through dry fields, which could easily spark a blaze.

In addition, homeowners are asked to help mitigate the risk by clearing debris from around their homes and buildings to give fire departments a better chance to protect their properties if an incident arises.

The fire danger is expected to remain at critical levels for the foreseeable future. Fire officials emphasize everyone must do their part to prevent wildland fires.