Campfire Safety
Campfire Safety
Never leave a campfire unattended!
Forest fires often start from campfires that were not put out completely.
You can be held responsible for suppression costs if your campfire starts a wildfire. OBEY ALL CAMPFIRE BANS IN EFFECT.
- Before you leave, always make sure that your campfire is “dead out.”
- Never leave a campfire unattended, not even for a minute.
- You can be held responsible for suppression costs if your campfire escapes and causes an uncontrolled wildfire.
- During drought conditions, always check for campfire bans that may be in effect. Consider campfire alternatives.
Building and Putting Out Your Campfire
- Keep fire site away from overhanging branches.
- Use an existing pit if possible, and circle it with rocks.
- Clear a 5-foot area around the pit, removing burnable debris down to the soil.
- Keep a bucket of water and a shovel nearby.
- Stack extra wood upwind and away from the fire.
- After lighting, do not discard the match until it is cold.
- Never leave a campfire unattended, not even for a minute.
- When you leave, make sure the fire is completely out.
- Drown the fire and surrounding area with water.
- Stir the fire with a shovel or stick, then drown it again.
- Add water and stir until the area is cold to the touch.
- Don’t bury coals. They can smolder and break out.