New Mexico aims to reduce human-caused wildfires by reviving effective prevention campaigns

Utah has shown us how effective a good campaign can be. Back in 2020, they teamed up with an ad agency to launch the FireSense campaign. It focused on the main reasons people start wildfires, like campfires and outdoor equipment. The result? A whopping 75% drop in human-caused wildfires in just three years. That’s proof that prevention messaging really works!
New Mexico has its own Smokey Bear program, which has been around for ages. We can build on that and reach even more people with consistent reminders. This could really help protect our homes, businesses, and natural resources.
In our state, the biggest culprits for human-caused wildfires are things like using equipment, burning debris, and campfires. Even simple things like parking vehicles over dry grass can spark a fire. The good news is that we can prevent most of these fires with the right actions.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is on board too. She’s suggested a special budget for the Forestry Division to kick off a program similar to Utah’s FireSense. The idea is to get everyone involved and make sure New Mexicans know how they can help prevent wildfires. Imagine seeing ads on TV, radio, and billboards reminding us that “Only you can prevent forest fires.” That could really help save our forests!
It’s crucial to understand that our actions can prevent over 75% of wildfires. If we all take responsibility, we can protect our environment for future generations.
Remember to make sure your campfire is completely out. Avoid using spark-producing tools outside on windy days. Keep an eye on your weather app for Red Flag warnings. And don’t forget to clear five feet of vegetation around your home to help defend against wildfires. Chat with your neighbors about prevention—it really makes a difference. Teamwork is key!
Wildfires might feel like a distant problem, but they can happen anywhere. Scientists predict that wildfires will become more frequent and severe in the coming years.
We can all make a difference. Let’s support this educational campaign and think about how we can help prevent wildfires when the weather warms up. New Mexicans love our forests and open spaces, and they’ll be grateful for our efforts.