Effort aims to reduce wildfire risk across the state, officials say
K-State Extension news service
MANHATTAN, Kan. — Fire, weather, and emergency response agencies and organizations from across Kansas are encouraging residents to take part in Kansas Wildfire Awareness Week, February 8-14, to learn how working together can reduce wildfire risk across the state.
Bill Waln, the fire management officer with the Kansas Forest Service, said his agency has formed a partnership with numerous state and federal agencies to promote the 2026 theme, Working Together for Wildfire Awareness – Making Kansas Stronger.
The partnership includes the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, the Office of the State Fire Marshal, the Kansas State Firefighters Association, the Kansas Association of Fire Chiefs; and Kansas partners through federal organizations, including the National Weather Service and the U.S. Forest Service (through the Cimarron National Grassland).
Waln said this year’s theme highlights how wildfire preparedness and prevention start at home and extends to neighbors, local fire departments and state and federal partners.
“Wildfire doesn’t stop at a fence line,” he said. “Preparedness and prevention are shared responsibilities. When Kansans work together before a fire starts, we improve safety for our communities and for the firefighters who protect them.”
Waln said more than 90% of wildfires in Kansas are caused by humans, often resulting from escaped debris burns, dragging trailer chains, welding, equipment use, or other outdoor fires during high fire danger conditions. Awareness Week focuses on simple actions Kansans can take to prepare, prevent and respond to wildfires.
Homeowners are encouraged to reduce hazards around their homes by clearing dry vegetation and removing flammable materials. Neighbors and landowners can work together to reduce fuels and plan safe mitigation projects.
Waln said local fire departments, many staffed by volunteers, rely on public awareness and responsible behavior to keep communities safe.
Kansas Wildfire Awareness Week will also emphasize the importance of partnerships built before an emergency. Local, state, and federal agencies work together year-round to provide weather monitoring, training, equipment and wildfire response support.
The Kansas Forest Service has published a website that provides more information, as well as activities taking place during Kansas Wildfire Awareness Week. More information about wildfire preparedness in Kansas also is available at Kansasforests.org.
