For information on novelty fireworks allowed in Missoula city limits, visit ci.missoula.mt.us/1763/Fireworks.
“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public, community-sponsored display,” the agency advised. “If you choose to light fireworks yourself, use extreme caution and light them in an area clear of grass and other fuels. Light them one at a time and move away quickly.”
The DNRC also urged people to be responsible with campfires by never leaving them unattended; keeping flammable materials away from flames; keeping a shovel and bucket of water nearby; and dousing and stirring fires until cool to extinguish them. Used fireworks should be doused in water before disposal.
Despite a relatively cool spring that somewhat dampened fire danger, the DNRC noted, “weather forecasts for the holiday include hot temperatures and an incoming front with potential wind.”
On Tuesday, the National Weather Service predicted daily high temperatures of 92 degrees Fahrenheit in Missoula this weekend, nearly 90 degrees in Hamilton, mid-80s in Seeley Lake, low 90s in Superior and Thompson Falls, upper 80s in Kalispell, and mid-90s in Libby.
Fire danger across Missoula County and the surrounding Lolo National Forest was moderate, the second-lowest of five levels, on Tuesday. Fire danger was also moderate on the Bitterroot National Forest, but the DNRC warned that “predicted hot and dry conditions could elevate the risk of wildfire quickly.”
Fire danger was classified as low on the Flathead National Forest on Tuesday and moderate on the Kootenai.
Even in moderate fire danger, the agency emphasized, “fires will quickly start in open, dry grassland and will burn and spread rapidly on windy days. Most fires in wooded areas will spread slowly to moderately and burn with moderate intensity, although heavy concentrations of fuel (vegetation, downed timber, etc.) may burn hot.”
