#RecreateResponsibly and Do Your Part to Help Prevent Wildfires
As seasons change, so do our practices to keep everyone safe outside, and to protect the places we play! In the spring, summer, and fall, environments can change quickly and access points may be more limited. As the weather becomes warmer and wildland vegetation begins to dry out, it is time to plan for wildfires.
The Recreate Responsibly Coalition has gathered guidelines to help you #RecreateResponsibly and do your part for wildfire prevention and safety during the 2021 fire year.
- Know Before You Go – Know how to prevent wildfires by properly using outdoor equipment, learning campfire safety, and checking for fire restrictions and closures.
- Practice Physical Distancing – Give people space – it’s critical to not crowd firefighting efforts. Wildfires are no-drone-zones.
- Plan Ahead – Know what fire restrictions are in place at your destination, and check if campfires, barbecues, and flammables are allowed.
- Play it Safe – From fireworks to camp stoves, understand the potentially explosive nature of your toys and tools .and that some of these may be restricted in your location.
- Explore Locally – Impacts from wildfire can change your travel plans. Have a back-up plan, like close-to-home gems that you have yet to explore.
- Leave No Trace – Keep your campfire small, ensure that it’s out completely and cold to the touch prior to leaving or going to sleep.
- Build an Inclusive Outdoors – Everyone experiences the outdoors differently, and we can work together to keep our communities safe.
Additional Resources:
- Read our past blog on Campfire Safety Tips from Washington State Department of Natural Resources
- National Interagency Fire Center: NIFC.gov
- InciWeb Incident Information System: inciweb.nwcg.gov
- One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire: One Less Spark Campaign
- Firewise: Firewise USA®
- Leave No Trace: Destructive Fires – Leave No Trace
- Wildfire Safety Tips from REI: Wildfire Safety Tips for Outdoor Recreation
- Smokey Bear Safety Tips: Prevention How-Tos
- Tips at Ready.gov: Prepare for Wildfires
- CDC Guidance: Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke