Colorado State Patrol advises drivers to use caution near wildfires

STATEWIDE, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) are asking drivers to use caution as wildfires continue to burn across the state.

CSP asks drivers to avoid active fire areas and find alternate routes when available. Officials urge drivers to check for road closures and follow evacuation orders immediately.

If drivers have to go through an active fire area, CSP says to keep the following things in mind:

• Keep windows and doors closed and use the recirculation feature on the car
• Do not use high beam headlights
• Drive slow, increase following distance, and avoid stopping
• Bring a vehicle fire extinguisher during evacuation if able

CSP says once drivers have exited an active fire zone, they should pull over to check their vehicle for any damage, and remove ash and other debris that may have fallen.

Officials recommend leaving early, even before an official evacuation order, to avoid gridlock and any potential risky evacuations.

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