With Colorado Department of Transportation meteorologists warning of an above-normal potential for significant fires across much of Colorado, but especially in the mountains and foothills, this summer, the Department is taking proactive steps to reduce wildfire risk along the state’s highway network.
The Department has accelerated its roadside vegetation management program, expanded coordination with partner agencies and put contingency plans in place to protect travelers and communities if fire conditions deteriorate this summer.
“Our highway corridors run through some of the most fire-prone landscapes in the country,” said Bob Fifer, CDOT’s deputy director of operations.
“We have a responsibility not only to keep roads open, but to make sure our right of way isn’t contributing to the fire problem. This year, with drought conditions already taking hold across Colorado, we’re moving earlier and working harder to get ahead of the risk.”
Dry, unmowed grass and dense brush along highway shoulders are among the most common ignition points for roadside wildfires. A spark from a trailer chain, a hot catalytic converter or a vehicle fire can spread rapidly in drought conditions. CDOT maintenance crews have already begun accelerated mowing, brush clearing and vegetation treatment along high-priority corridors, with a focus on areas identified as elevated fire threat zones by the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control.
CDOT urges all travelers to be aware of heightened fire risk conditions when driving through forested and grassland corridors this summer.
Motorists are warned to never throw cigarettes from vehicles, ensure trailer chains and tow equipment are properly secured to avoid road contact and pull over safely onto a shoulder if a vehicle shows signs of mechanical distress rather than stopping in dry grass or fire prone areas.
Travelers can check current road conditions, closures and fire-related restrictions being messaged on variable message signs at COtrip.org or the COtrip Planner app.
