wildfire safety

During Arizona summers, it’s not uncommon for wildland fires to result in the closures of highways. When this happens, we’re usually asked why the highway is closed or restricted when the fire isn’t on the road.

It’s a fair question and the answer is simple: Safety. For the traveling public and first responders fighting the fire.

PHOENIX – It’s summer in Arizona and with that comes blistering heat and wildfires that can cause travelers delays when there’s an unplanned highway closure. 

During these highway closures, the Arizona Department of Transportation sometimes receives questions on social media that ask a variation of: The wildfire isn't near the highway so why is the road closed?

ADOT and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management want people to know that the answer is safety — for the traveling public and first responders. 

Wildfire season is one more reason for drivers to use extra care. 

Don’t let your vehicle be the cause of a wildfire. 

As warm, dry weather settles into our state, the Arizona Department of Transportation is urging drivers to use extra care with their vehicles to reduce the chance of igniting a wildfire. 

Motorists should take preventative measures to reduce the risk that a spark from a vehicle or trailer doesn’t result in dry vegetation catching fire. A few tips include: