Have you ever opened your weather app and saw the words “Red Flag Warning” on your screen and wondered what that exactly means?
A Red Flag Warning is issued by the National Weather Service when specific areas are at a higher risk of a significant wildfire occurring. This could be due to either weather conditions or lack of moisture and humidity.
While these warnings are typically issued during the Summer months, it is very common, especially in Colorado, to have them issued during the cooler months.
What makes wildfires more dangerous on Red Flag Warnings?
Red Flag Warnings are typically issued in areas that have an extreme absence of any rain/snow for an extended period of time, as well as higher winds. These factors, in turn, cause a small wildfire to turn into a much larger situation as drier vegetation and other grasses burn significantly faster when dried up.
What should you do during a Red Flag Warning?:
When a red flag warning is issued in your area, you should halt any sort of outdoor burning, which could mean campfires, bonfires, or prescribed burns. Additionally, you should limit the usage of any spark-causing tools for outdoor work, such as lawnmowers on dry grasses, as this could increase the chances of a wildfire sparking. Smoking products should be properly disposed of and not thrown onto the ground, as the heat and flames from the products may spark a wildfire.
If you live in a Wildland Urban Interface, or you live in an area where larger wildfires typically occur, it is a good idea to have a “go-bag” ready to go at a short notice in case you have to be evacuated.
Things you should carry in your “go-bag”:
- Important documents such as birth certificates
- Water and food
- Important medications (if applicable)
- Pet leashes, crates, and pet food (if applicable)
In conclusion, it is always important to pay attention and listen to law enforcement and fire department orders during a significant wildfire, as they will help you get to safety, and notify you during an evacuation. If you can not safely evacuate, call 911 immediately, and they will send help for you.
During Red Flag Warnings/increased fire danger days, it is important to monitor your local emergency service’s social media pages, as they will have more information on current fires occurring near you or specific fire restrictions you must follow.
If you see smoke or flames, always call 911 and contact your local fire department or law enforcement agencies with specific questions about Red Flag Warnings in your city or county.
