The Hidden Danger of Parking on Dry Grass in Colorado
Don’t Let Your Car Spark a Wildfire
My blog this month was sparked (pun intended) by seeing a car parked in the mountains in dry grass. I commented to a friend who has lived in Colorado for years about how dangerous it can be and realized she didn’t know either. It seems like if you’ve spent any time in Colorado during the summer, you know how quickly the landscape can turn from lush green to crunchy brown. Dry grasses, low humidity, and gusty winds create the perfect recipe for wildfires—and you might be surprised to learn one common culprit: a parked car.
Why a Hot Car Is a Fire Risk
It’s not just campfires, fireworks or tossed cigarettes that can ignite a blaze. The heat from your car’s undercarriage—especially the catalytic converter—can reach up to 1,200°F. That’s hotter than the temperature needed to ignite dry grass, which is often less than 500°F.
When you pull off the road onto a patch of grass, even for “just a minute,” that heat can turn those brittle stems into kindling.
Real Stories, Real Consequences
Wildfires started by parked cars happen more often than you might think. In past Colorado summers, fires have spread from a single ignition point to hundreds of acres in minutes—forcing evacuations, destroying homes, and costing millions to fight.
What began as an innocent roadside stop turned into a life-altering disaster.
How to Prevent It
- Stick to pavement or gravel when parking or stopping.
If you must pull over in an emergency, choose bare dirt or an area with no vegetation. - Avoid driving through tall, dry grass when conditions are hot and dry.
- Keep your vehicle well-maintained—overheating parts can increase the risk.
A Simple Choice, A Big Impact
We all have a part to play in wildfire prevention. Being aware of how—and where—you park is an easy step that can prevent tragedy.
In a state where the wind can carry embers miles away, one small spark is all it takes. So next time you’re heading out to hike, picnic, or just enjoy the view, make sure your car is resting on something safe.
Colorado’s beauty is worth protecting. Let’s keep it that way.
Written by Shannon Miller with the Weinland Team at RE/MAX Alliance
Phone: (970) 818-8895
Email: Shannon@TheWeinlandTeam.com
Written by fortcollinsexperience
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