The Arizona Department of Transportation announced on May 11 that it is reminding motorists to take precautions to prevent brush fires as summer approaches and temperatures rise across the state.
With seasonal changes increasing the risk of wildland fires, ADOT highlighted several steps drivers can take to reduce the chance of accidentally starting a wildfire with their vehicles. The department said that loose trailer chains, parking or driving over dry grass, underinflated tires exposing wheel rims, and discarding cigarettes from vehicles are all common causes of roadside fires.
“Everyone has a shared responsibility to prevent wildfires. Motorists can do their part by: Ensuring trailer chains are securely attached. Loose chains can drag on the pavement, shooting sparks off the road and into dry brush and grass. Avoiding parking on dry grass or driving through tall grass. Heat from the underside of your vehicle can start a fire. Checking tire pressure before you travel. Exposed wheel rims can cause sparks. Never throwing a cigarette out of a vehicle,” ADOT said in its statement.
The department also advised travelers to prepare for possible delays due to highway closures or restrictions caused by incidents such as wildfires or crashes. “Be prepared and be patient. If you find yourself in a backup on a highway that is closed or restricted due to an unplanned incident, like a wildfire or crash, stay in your lane and don’t drive onto the shoulder because first responders use that lane to reach the incident scene,” ADOT said.
Motorists are encouraged to pack emergency kits including water, snacks, sun protection, medications, and fully charged phones before setting out on trips this season.
ADOT manages facilities such as rest areas and snowplow operations using specialized equipment while monitoring highways with cameras across multiple districts; it also provides traveler updates via AZ511.gov and supports transportation infrastructure at sites ranging from airports near Grand Canyon National Park to southern border ports according to the official website.
For current information about wildfire status statewide, drivers should check InciWeb for updates. Real-time road conditions are available at AZ511.gov online or through mobile apps.
