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What does a red flag warning mean?

Helpful tips to prevent wildfires from beginning during red-flag conditions
The 416 Fire closes in on the Animas Village Apartments and the Hermosa Hills townhomes late Friday evening west of U.S. Highway 550.

A red flag warning has been issued for Southwest Colorado from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. today, which means that fires can start quickly, spread quickly, and burn with intensity. The best way to control wildfires in these conditions is to prevent them from igniting, according to Forest Service Fire Management.

The National Forest Service offered tips on how to prevent potential fires.

Campers should make sure their campfires are fully extinguished. Douse the fire, stir the ashes, and then feel the fire with the back of your hand to make sure it is cold. Be sure to turn over any burnt wood to wet both sides and wet the area around the fire. If it is too hot to touch then it is too hot to leave.When towing vehicles, make sure no chains or parts are dragging. Check the air pressure in all tires. If you get a flat tire, stop immediately. Driving on a tire rim will create sparks that could ignite a fire. Do not park vehicles in dry grass as hot exhaust pipes could potentially start a fire. When shooting firearms, place targets on gravel or dirt. Do not use steel targets. Use lead ammunition only, and do not use tracer rounds or explosive targets. Keep water or an extinguisher close by.For more information on prescribed burns, wildfires and fire restrictions on National Forest System lands and other areas, call the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests Fire Information line at (970) 874-6602, visit the GMUG Forest website or following them on Twitter.

Jun 10, 2018
416 Fire nearly doubles in size; smoke advisory in effect


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