State wildlife and outdoor recreation officials in North Dakota are urging hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to be especially vigilant of fire risks following a weekend of historic wildfires in the western part of the state.

With dry conditions persisting, the North Dakota Game and Fish Department and Parks and Recreation Department are emphasizing the importance of awareness, particularly as the highly anticipated pheasant hunting season kicks off and hundreds of campers visit state parks.

Jeb Williams, Director of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, highlighted the role hunters play in monitoring rural areas during the fall. "Hunters are always our eyes and ears, and this weekend, with pheasant season opening, it will be especially important," Williams said.

He encouraged hunters to report any fire activity immediately to law enforcement and to carry fire safety tools such as extinguishers and shovels. Williams also stressed the importance of properly discarding smoking materials to prevent fires and warned against attempting to control large, out-of-control fires.

Cody Schulz, Director of the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department, echoed the call for vigilance, urging anyone recreating outdoors to stay alert to the fire risk. "We are grateful for the first responders, local officials, and landowners battling these wildfires," Schulz said. He reminded the public to report any signs of fire, such as smoke or sparks, by calling 911.

The current elevated fire danger index, affecting most counties in North Dakota, is likely to impact outdoor activities. The latest fire conditions can be found at NDResponse.gov.

Hunters, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to follow burn restrictions and avoid activities that could inadvertently start a fire, such as dragging chains, parking on dry grass, or leaving campfires unattended. County-level burning bans remain in effect until lifted by local authorities, regardless of daily fire index updates.

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As the dry weather continues, officials are reminding the public that wildfire risk can change daily based on wind, temperature, and precipitation forecasts, urging all outdoor visitors to stay informed and cautious.

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