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Wildfire Prevention: How to properly extinguish a campfire

Safety tips from the U.S. Forest Service
Posted at 5:12 PM, Jul 13, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-13 21:32:17-04

CLEAR CREEK COUNTY, Colo. -- With high fire danger across much of Colorado, it's important to remember the words of Smokey Bear: "Only you can prevent wildfires".

Whether you build a campfire on National Forest land or in your own backyard, please practice safety. Hot, dry summer days, low relative humidity and windy conditions quickly add fuel to new fires.

To prevent any human caused wildfires, the US Forest Service offers these tips to properly extinguish campfires. 

  • Make sure the area around your campfire is clear of brush and debris
  • Always have water and a shovel on hand
  • Douse the fire in water, cover it with dirt, then "stir and drown"
  • Keep stirring until the fire is out and cold to the touch

Right now, Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in place across the Front Range. Campfires are only allowed in designated campgrounds and picnic areas where grates are provided. 

Fireworks are always banned on public lands. Smoking is prohibited expect in an enclosed vehicle or building. 

For current fire bans and restrictions across Colorado, click here.

For more information on campfire safety, check out Smokey's website.