The calendar says that summer is over, but the weather says there's still time for camping.Enjoy your public lands, but remember to extinguish campfires properly with water and dirt until coals are cool."We put out six abandoned campfires this weekend in the Beartooth Ranger District," said Babete Anderson, fire restrictions coordinator for the Custer National Forest. "Fortunately the wind didn't catch any sparks before we got to them."Also remember that Stage 1 fire restrictions are still in effect in Big Horn, Carbon (except in the Beartooth Ranger District), Treasure, Stillwater and Yellowstone counties.Under Stage 1, campfires are prohibited, and smoking is allowed only within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials. Camp stoves fueled solely by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels that can be turned on and off are exempted from the restriction. Such devices can only be used in an area that is barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding flammable materials within three feet.Wildland fires are easy to prevent. Start by making sure your campfire is completely out before you leave it.Keep water and a shovel nearby in the case of a mishap.Pay attention to your surroundings and report any irresponsible behavior to the appropriate authorities.As Smokey says, "It's up to you."Do your part. Don't start wildfires.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management
