Campfire Safety
CAMPFIRE SAFETY
A campfire can bring people together—or start a wildfire. Know how to build it safely, keep it contained, and put it out completely to protect Colorado’s people, property, and open spaces.
1. Make sure there are no burn bans in effect and that your campsite allows campfires.
2. Consider your surroundings - Dry grasses close by or overhanging branches can catch fire easily. Make sure to set up your campfire away from anything that can burn.
3. Never leave your campfire unattended.
4. Pour water on your campfire when you are finished using it. Ensure the campfire is cold before walking away. If you do not have water, use dirt.
Do NOT light a campfire during any of the following conditions:
- When there is a “Red Flag Warning” issued by the National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/bou/
- When the Fire Weather Outlook for the day is “Elevated, Critical, or Extreme”: http://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/fire_wx/fwdy1.html
- When there is an open burning restriction issued by a county sheriff (for unincorporated areas) or elected representatives (for incorporated areas).
- During periods of sustained or gusty winds that make the activity unsafe.
Know your county's fire restrictions on any given day:
Smokey Bear says it best! Only You can prevent wildfires. "Nearly 9 out of 10 wildfires are caused by people and could have been prevented."
Learn how to start, manage, and put out a campfire safely with Smokey Bear by Clicking Here.