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Wildfire
Prevention Tips
While many
wildfires are caused by dry lightning in western Colorado, an alarming
number of fires were ignited by careless human acts this past year.
And with fire conditions so extreme on public lands, visitors are
urged to take precautions and be aware of restrictions and closures.
Here are some
helpful tips to follow when visiting public lands or other areas where
wildland fires can ignite.What is the
safest way to build, maintain, and extinguish a campfire?
- Clear
campfire sight down to bare soil
Circle the
pit with rocks.
Build
campfires away from overhanging branches, steep slopes, dry grass,
and leaves.
Keep a bucket
of water and a shovel nearby.
Never leave a
campfire unattended.
When putting
out a campfire, drown the fire, stir it, and drown it again.
Always have
an adult around to supervise outdoor cooking.
- Be careful
with gas lanterns, barbeques, gas stoves, and anything that can be
a source of ignition for a wildfire.
Where
can I use fireworks on public lands?
- The use of
fireworks is strictly prohibited on ALL Federal and State public
lands.
Here are some
safety tips for the use of fireworks on PRIVATE LAND.
- Always read
directions.
Always have
adult supervision.
Never use
fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
Have a bucket
of water and a hose nearby.
Never attempt
to re-light or "fix" fireworks.
Fireworks are
not toys.
- Use only
State Fire Marshal approved fireworks.
What is the
safest way to burn trash?
- Always check
to see if a burn ban is in effect for your county before burning.
Call Carbondale Fire at 963-2491.
Read and
follow the instructions on your burn permit.Burn trash in
a safe incinerator that includes: Heavy mesh screen with holes not
much longer than 1/4 inch, and a metal barrel in good condition
- Clear the
ground of flammable material around the incinerator at least 10
feet.
How do I
safely operate a on or off-road vehicle on public lands when fire
potential is high?
- Never park
your vehicle on dry grass.
Never throw a
lighted cigarette out the window of a vehicle.
Grease
trailer wheels, check tires, and ensure safety chains are not
touching the ground.
Avoid driving
through tall grass.
Internal
combustion engines on off-road vehicles require a spark arrester.
Check and
clean the spark arrester.
- Carry a
shovel and fire extinguisher in your vehicle or OHV/ATV.
What are the
dangers of using motorized equipment on Federal and State public
lands?
- Sparks from
chainsaws, welding torches, and other equipment can cause wild
fires.
- Please check
local restrictions before using such equipment.
How can I
prevent a wildfire if I smoke?
- Never throw a
lighted cigarette from the window of a vehicle.
Never walk
off and leave a burning cigarette.
Be aware of
smoking restrictions when recreating on Federal and State public
lands.
Use ash
trays.
- Follow all
local restrictions and guidlines about smoking.
What can kids
do to help prevent wildfires?
- Never play
with matches, lighters, flammable liquids, or any fire.
Tell your
friends about fire prevention.
- Stay calm
during an emergency, and listen to instructions from your parents
or another person who is in charge.
As a
homeowner in the wildland/urban interface, how can I protect my
property from wildfires?
- The best
resource for information on protecting your home is through the FireWise
web site.
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