Reducing Wildfire Risk in New Mexico: Lessons from Utah s FireSense Campaign

This article emphasizes the importance of wildfire prevention efforts in New Mexico, focusing on the human causes of wildfires and offering a model for proactive steps.

It highlights the success of Utah’s FireSense campaign, which reduced human-caused wildfires by 75% in three years through targeted messaging about common fire hazards such as outdoor equipment use and campfires.

New Mexico’s Smokey Bear program has served as an important foundation for such prevention efforts, and the article advocates for building upon this by implementing a similar campaign statewide.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s proposed budget includes funding for the Forestry Division to launch such a program, utilizing TV, radio, and billboards to reach a broad audience and emphasize the role residents can play in wildfire prevention.

Key recommendations for individuals include ensuring campfires are completely extinguished, avoiding outdoor power tools on windy days, staying informed about Red Flag weather conditions, and creating defensible spaces around homes.

Additionally, the article urges community engagement, reminding readers that collective effort is critical in reducing wildfire risks.

In conclusion, the article calls for action and support for an educational campaign aimed at preventing wildfires in New Mexico, stressing that responsible actions can prevent the majority of wildfires and protect the state’s natural resources.

 

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