LAKEWOOD, COLORADO — As part of Wildfire Awareness Month, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Colorado emphasizes the critical need for responsible recreation to prevent wildfires. With wildfire activity extending from early spring to late fall, effective fire management has become increasingly challenging. Alarmingly, 80% of wildfires on BLM public lands are human-caused.
“Wildfires can threaten people, homes, livelihoods, and natural resources. That is why we want the public to be educated on how they can prevent wildfires when they are recreating on public lands,” stated Brian Achziger, BLM Colorado State Fire Management Officer.
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Wildfire Safety Tips and Best Practices
To help prevent wildfires, fire officials recommend the following outdoor fire safety principles:
- Know before you go: Check local fire restrictions and be aware of use restrictions and any active fire closures.
- Clear the area: Remove flammable materials within three feet of a campfire ring and avoid overhanging trees.
- Be prepared: Bring extra water and a shovel if planning to build a fire.
- Never leave a fire unattended: Ensure you are always present to monitor the fire.
- Use designated fire pits: If available, use them and avoid overloading the fire with fuel.
- Mind the wind: Pay attention to wind conditions to prevent ember spread.
- Extinguish completely: Ensure fires are fully extinguished with no visible flames or lingering heat.
- Safe vehicle practices: Avoid parking or idling vehicles in tall, dry grass; heat from vehicles can ignite a fire.
- Secure chains: Ensure all vehicle and towed trailer chains are secure to prevent sparks.
- No fireworks: Fireworks are prohibited on federally managed public lands.
In addition to these prevention measures, planning and preparing for wildfires is crucial. Ensure you have an emergency plan, know your evacuation route, and are ready for smoke conditions. For more information on fire safety and wildfire season updates, visit BLM Colorado’s website and Ready.gov.
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