Due to increased risk of wildfires, the Gifford Pinchot National Forest fire managers have issued restrictions on campfires, smoking and other activities within the forest.
The restrictions went into effect on July 17, according to a news release from the U.S. Forest Service.
Restrictions include:
• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or stove fire, including a charcoal fire and pellet fire on all National Forest lands. Portable cooking stoves, lanterns and heating devices using liquefied or bottled fuel, such as propane, are allowed as they can be switched off instantly.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a designated campground or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
• Possessing, discharging or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device is prohibited year-round on national forest lands.
• Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order.
Nearly nine out of 10 wildfires nationwide are human caused and can be prevented. Everyone can do their part to help prevent wildfires. Smokey Bear’s message of preventing unwanted human-caused ignitions is more relevant today than ever before as more people live closer to wildlands and recreate outdoors, the Forest Service stated in the release.
