Practice Heightened Fire Safety at All Times
Western Wyo. –Teton Interagency Fire managers have elevated the fire danger rating to “very high” for Grand Teton National Park, the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and the National Elk Refuge. Conditions in the Teton Interagency Dispatch area are drying rapidly, and a fire may start easily, spread rapidly and burn intensely. Everyone is asked to practice heightened fire safety at all times.
Fire managers use a variety of factors to determine fire danger ratings including the moisture content of fuels (how dry grasses, shrubs and trees are); projected weather conditions (including temperatures and possible wind events); the ability of fire to spread after ignition; and the availability of firefighting resources nationwide.
So far this year, Teton Interagency Fire personnel have extinguished 75 unattended or abandoned campfires. Abandoned campfires can quickly escalate into wildfires, and if your campfire sparks a wildfire, you can be held responsible for the cost of putting it out.
What you can do
During times of elevated fire danger, the safest option is to not build a campfire at all. Dress warmly and use layers instead of relying on a campfire for warmth. If you choose to have a campfire where it’s allowed:
- Never leave a campfire unattended or abandoned.
- Have a shovel and water bucket on hand.
- Use several gallons of water to fully extinguish your campfire.
- Drown, stir, feel and repeat until the ashes are cold to the touch.
- Break up charred logs and cover all remains with dirt.
Other considerations
- Do not park on tall grass as that grass can ignite when in contact with a hot vehicle.
- If pulling a trailer, ensure your chains are clear of the ground as small sparks could start roadside fires.
- If you come across an abandoned campfire and it is within your power, please put it out and contact Teton Interagency Dispatch to report its location.
For the latest fire updates, safety tips, and current fire restrictions, visit TetonFires.com. To report smoke or a fire, call the Teton Interagency Fire Dispatch Center at 307-739-3630.
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