Free Smoke Alarms and Family Fun? Don’t Miss This Wildfire Safety Event Near Missoula!

May is Wildfire Preparedness Month. For Montana residents, it's important to be prepared for wildfires. So far this year we have already seen over 200 wildfires and we have seven currently burning, according to the Montana fire information map.

Montana's summer forecast calls for possible record temperatures in some areas of the state and we may also see drier conditions. Both of those factors combined could lead to an active fire season in Montana.

Read More: Montana Farmer's Almanac Summer Forecast '25 

This weekend the Montana Red Cross is teaming up with members of the Montana DNRC and the Missoula Rural Fire District for a Wildfire Preparedness Outreach Event. The event will be held at the Missoula Rural Fire District Station #4 in Bonner from 10:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. this Saturday, May 10. 

Not only will families get an opportunity to learn more about wildfire preparedness, but there is an opportunity to get free smoke alarm installations and to sign up for free home risk assessment for the upcoming wildfire season.

Read More: How to Safeguard Your Home From Montana Wildfires

I spoke with Keeley Van Middendorp, the Regional Communications Manager, from the Red Cross about the event.

It's going to be a really fun family-friendly event. We're going to have Pedro the Penguin there and Smokey Bear. They'll be there bringing family friendly emergency preparedness information to kids and families. We're really excited for families to come out and learn more about what we do and how to keep their homes safe. 

I have been a fan of Smokey Bear for years. I had no idea who Pedro the Penguin was. Pedro helps kids and families be prepared in case of emergencies.

Have some fun this Saturday and learn about being prepared for wildfires this season, it looks like it is going to be an active year for fires in Montana.