With the Memorial Day Weekend ahead and more people spending time outdoors, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) reminds everyone to be cautious while using fire outdoors.Kyle Cowan, BLM Wyoming fire management officer said, "Although we have received needed precipitation over the past several weeks, drought conditions still exist throughout the state. At higher elevation, the fuels went dormant. It will take a lot more precipitation to make them less available to burn. In the lower elevations, the fuels have benefited from the moisture and we've seen a spike in growth. As we continue to see hotter and drier conditions, this new growth will become available to burn."Cowan reminds those heading outdoors for the summer months to be prepared when lighting camp fires on BLM-managed land."When people are recreating they need to be prepared and aware," he said. "When going out, be prepared with a shovel and either a fire extinguisher or water. Be sure to clear away vegetation before lighting a camp fire and make sure it's out before you leave."Currently, no special restrictions are in effect on BLM land, however year-around restrictions remain in place. Those restrictions include not using or discharging fireworks, not discharging a firearm using incendiary or tracer ammunition, not burning, igniting, or causing any tire, wire, magnesium, or any other hazardous explosive material to burn. Operating any off-road vehicle on public lands is also not allowed unless the vehicle is equipped with a properly installed spark arrester.For the most up to date fire conditions and restrictions, visit BLM Wyoming's web page at http://www.blm.gov/wy/st/en/programs/Fire.htmlOr follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/BLMWyoming or Facebook at www.facebook.com/BLMWyoming
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management
