Safety First for Vehicles Traveling in the Backcountry of Montana

Recent rains across the mountains and plains of Montana have definitely made our countrysides much greener, but drought conditions remain through many counties.  And with the hottest days of the summer yet to come, conditions for wildland fires climbs with the temperatures.

via GIPHY

Agencies across Montana, including the Bureau of Land Management are reminding recreationists to follow some simple but effective rules for your vehicle this summer.  Both the "on the road" and "off the road versions" of them.

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Safety First for Vehicles Traveling in the Backcountry of Montana

Since I grew up on a ranch, it was at an early age that I learned a few of the simple tips that would help in me not setting the hay field or the entire forest behind our homestead on fire.  I still walk around my vehicle or whatever I am towing, making sure nothing is dragging, including the safety chains.

a truck is being towed on a flatbed trailer

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That also went for chains used by the turnbuckles, or just a simple ratchet strap that didn't get properly attached, leaving a metal hook to dangle.  Both of those instances can create sparks on either pavement or gravel roads, igniting the barrow pit and leading to a full blown, out of control fire.

A truck with a bunch of wires on the back of it

Other Tips That Can Make a Difference in Being Safe on the Road or Trail in Montana

There are some other easy to follow tips that you can use to avoid causing a grass fire when taking the family camping.  Or even just a quick backroad trip to your favorite getaway spot.

woman sitting on chair near tent

Be sure you are parking in a mowed or short grass area.  Hot motors, catalytic converters, even your exhaust can all ignite dry grass.

Collection of car exhaust catalytic converters and parts

And speaking of exhaust, off road vehicles are required to have a spark arrestor as part of the standard equipment.

Volker Kreinacke

Your brakes are another area of your vehicle that can get extremely hot and extremely close to the ground.  Metal to metal can create sparks as well if your brake pads aren't operating properly.

Deagreez

What other tips have you learned through the years that can help keep fires at bay when enjoying or recreating in Big Sky Country?  Let us know in the comments or through our station's app chat feature.