Campfire safety is everyone's responsibility

Wildfire prevention personnel and first responders have been encountering a high number of unattended campfires this spring across public lands within Missoula County. Even though mild spring conditions have ushered in wet, cool conditions, campfire safety should always be followed to prevent wildfire.

Campfires should be kept smaller than 3 feet in diameter, and optimally be contained within an existing metal ring at a designated campground or other established site. If campers are enjoying a stay outside of a campground, they are encouraged to use existing rock rings as opposed to building something new so future users can enjoy the site in the same condition. In either case, the area within 10 feet of the campfire should be kept clear of flammable material. 

Campfires should never be left unattended until they are dead-out, and cold to the touch by the back of the hand. Bring leather gloves, a shovel or spade, a bucket for water to "Drown, Stir, and Drown Again" the remaining coals before leaving the campfire site.

Plan ahead and bring firewood. Most campgrounds have been picked over for many years; don't anticipate you'll be able to gather and cut what you need on site.

Trash should never be burned in a campfire. Pack it in, pack it out. 

Be extra vigilant when the weather warms and winds are expected. It only takes a moment for campfire embers to spread to flammable fuels in windy conditions. Wildfire can quickly spread out of control. Nationally, in 2019, 87% of wildfires were caused by humans. (Source: nifc.gov)

Bookmark and share www.beoutdoorsafe.org and spread the word on how we can all do our part to keep our wildlands free of human-caused wildfire. Folks can also like the Missoula County Fire Protection Association on Facebook, and get information on our webpage: www.mcfpa.org.