MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Kansas is recognizing Kansas Wildfire Awareness Week from Feb. 8–14, a statewide public information campaign aimed at reducing wildfire risk through education, preparedness, and cooperation among residents, fire agencies, and emergency partners.
The campaign is a joint effort involving the Kansas Forest Service, Kansas Division of Emergency Management, Office of the State Fire Marshal, Kansas State Firefighters Association, and the Kansas Association of Fire Chiefs. Federal partners include the National Weather Service and the U.S. Forest Service, including support through the Cimarron National Grassland.
The 2026 theme, “Working Together for Wildfire Awareness – Making Kansas Stronger,” emphasizes that wildfire preparedness starts at home and extends to neighborhoods, local fire departments, and state and federal agencies working together year-round.
Officials note that more than 90 percent of wildfires in Kansas are human-caused, often sparked by escaped debris burns, dragging trailer chains, welding, equipment use, or other outdoor activities during high fire danger conditions. Wildfire Awareness Week focuses on simple, practical steps Kansans can take to prevent fires and reduce their impact when they occur.
Homeowners are encouraged to reduce hazards around their properties by clearing dry vegetation, removing flammable materials, and managing the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ)—the area in and around a structure where small changes can significantly reduce wildfire risk. Suggested actions include cleaning leaves and debris from roofs and gutters, moving firewood and combustible materials away from buildings, and trimming vegetation near structures and propane tanks.
Prevention also includes securing trailer chains, maintaining vehicles and equipment, clearing debris that could spark fires, and avoiding risky outdoor activities on days with elevated fire danger. Fire officials stress that responsible behavior during dry and windy conditions is critical to protecting both property and lives.
Kansas Wildfire Awareness Week also highlights the importance of readiness and response planning. Residents are urged to know multiple evacuation routes, sign up for local emergency alerts, and prepare a “go kit” for family members and pets. Having a plan in place allows first responders to focus on fire suppression rather than last-minute rescues.
Emergency officials say strong partnerships built before a wildfire occurs are essential. Local, state, and federal agencies work together year-round to provide weather monitoring, training, equipment, and coordinated response to wildfires across Kansas.
State fire leaders emphasize that individual actions have community-wide impacts. Preparing homes, preventing ignition sources, and planning ahead not only protect individual households but also help safeguard neighbors, firefighters, and entire communities during wildfire season.