Fire Restrictions lifted on Federal Lands
by Bridger-Teton National Forest
October 5, 2018
WESTERN WYOMING - The Bridger-Teton National Forest and Grand Teton National Park are cancelling fire restrictions as of noon on Friday, October 5. Due to widespread precipitation received and anticipated, cooler temperatures, and shorter days across the region, fire managers have determined the fire-danger rating will decrease from very high to moderate by Friday. This means that although accidental fires could get established in forested areas, fire intensity and spread would be slow to moderate. Fires are not likely to become serious, and control is relatively easy. However, cured grasses and sagebrush could burn briskly and spread rapidly on windy days.
We want to thank the public for their patience and cooperation with fire restrictions while they were in effect. With public support, fire restrictions in place, and more firefighters prepositioned in the area, human-caused fires were significantly reduced.
Visitors to the area are reminded to always practice fire safety and apply One Less Spark practices:
• Before heading out to camp or hunt, check with public land management agencies for fire danger, regulations, and restrictions. It is the responsibility of the individual to know what public land they are on, and respect private lands- and adhere to respective land management rules/regulations on each.
• Use existing fire rings whenever possible. Wood should never exceed the size fire ring.
• Build your fire away from adjoining or overhanging flammable vegetation. Clear ground vegetation so the fire is on bare mineral soil. Avoid having a fire on windy days.
• Ensure your fire is fully extinguished: Douse the fire or coals with water and dirt. Stir it until completely cold to the touch. Put your hand in the dirt to feel that it's no longer warm. Water in some campgrounds may be turned off for the season so bring water with you for dousing fires.
• Ensure that the area around a portable stove is clear of grasses and other fine vegetation. Stabilize the stove to prevent it from tipping and starting a fire.
• Never throw cigarettes out of a vehicle window. Use and ashtray.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles: Pack out cigarette butts and burned materials from your campsite.
• Never park a vehicle in dead grass; the catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation.
• Use caution when discharging a firearm, operating an internal combustion engine, welding, operating acetylene or other torches with an open flame, or using explosives (where permitted).
• Fireworks are always prohibited on state and federal lands.
For up-to-date fire information on fire-education information within the interagency area, visit tetonfires.com.
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