Dangerous fire season ahead

SANTA FE, NM (KRQE) - More than 100,000 plus acres of land have already burned this year in New Mexico.   Federal and state government agencies met Thursday in Santa Fe to prepare for what's expected to be a rough wildfire season.

New Mexico State Forestry, the U.S. Forest Service along with local fire departments attended the Seasonal Hazard Outlook Meeting.  It took a look at all potential weather and environmental hazards the state will face this year, but had a special emphasis on fire danger.

New Mexico is expecting one of the worst fire seasons in recent years, mostly in the southern area of the state.  A dry winter and the spring, which is also expected to be dry, are the major culprits.

The state Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management hosted the meeting.  It wants to make sure that local level agencies are prepared to evacuate residents, set up shelters and be able to coordinate efforts to fight fires.

One of the major fires this year was the Quail Ridge Fire in Silver City in early March. 

Officials say communication will be a vital link in fighting fires.  That means cooperation will be needed between agencies battling the blaze and communication getting people to safety.

Versions of the fire readiness guide are available at:

www.nmforestry.com

www.nmfireinfo.com

www.livingwithfire.info