Spring debris burning season will open Friday, March 1. According to the CSKT Division of Fire, burning can help clear dead vegetation and clean up.

“Before you light your piles or grass this spring, take the necessary precautions to ensure your burn does not become the next wildfire,” writes Fire Management Specialist C.T. Camel. “Careless debris burning is one of the main causes of wildfire on the Flathead Indian Reservation.”

Open burning season continues through April 30 on the reservation. To burn from May 1-June 30 landowners need permits; online applications are available starting April 30 at the Division of Fire website, csktfire.org.

Tips for safe burning include:

• Burn early in the day and check weather for afternoon or next-day wind conditions.

• Have proper personnel, equipment and a water supply and always make sure the area is cold to the touch before leaving.

• Check the following day as stumps or roots may hold heat that could re-ignite.

• If a fire does get out of control call 911 immediately.

“Remember you are responsible for all suppression and property costs if your fire escapes your control,” Camel said.

For more information, call the Division of Fire at 406-676-2550 or look for CSKT Division of Fire on Facebook.