The forestry commission has purchased five larger bulldozers capable of pushing fire lines through downed timber, which may block access to a fire, in addition to contracting the tankers, ADEM said. ADEM says disaster prevention advisers will travel the state this month showing how to protect against a wide range of dangers, including ice storms. Arkansas' Severe Weather Awareness week also is this month. The traveling road shows include day-long exhibits to show homeowners, builders and contractors how to prepare for future disasters and guard themselves and their property against damage. The road show will be at Lowe's from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday Feb. 24.
Prescribed burns are one way to protect against wildfires.
The forest service does not conduct a prescribed burn unless certain conditions are met, including a correct combination of humidity, wind, temperature, fuel moisture and atmospheric conditions. Fire management personnel control the intensity and pattern of a fire, confining it to a defined area, resulting in areas inside a fireline that resemble a mosaic of burned and unburned patches. Prescribed burns are used by foresters and wildlife biologists to improve the forest for plants and animals, according to the forest service. The fires also reduce the chances of an accidental wildfire or arson-related fires that can destroy acres of land, because the burns consume the same litter and underbrush that fuel those fires. According to the forest service, removing the litter and underbrush also promotes plant growth, because more sunlight reaches the forest floor.