Forest Service News Release
Do your part to prevent
wildfires this Independence Day
For many, the Fourth of July means celebrating our country’s independence with barbecues, camping, and fireworks. The Mt. Hood National Forest encourages people to enjoy the holiday weekend safely – and to be especially mindful of wildfire prevention on your public lands.
Visitors to national forests should always use caution to prevent human-caused wildfires. Every year, unattended campfires are the number one source of wildfires on Mt. Hood National Forest. To reduce wildfire risk, please consider the following:
- Before visiting, learn of any local fire restrictions by checking our website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/mthood/fire or by contacting one of our district offices.
- Build campfires in open areas, preferably in existing fire rings.
- Make sure campfires are fully out and cool to the touch before leaving the area using the water and shovel technique. Never leave a campfire unattended. This video demonstrates how to properly build and extinguish a campfire: https://tinyurl.com/4drjvu3e
- When smoking, always dispose of cigarette debris in an ashtray.
- Avoid driving and parking in tall grasses. Exhaust particles and hot exhaust pipes can start grass fires. Even chains dragging along the ground, such as those on ATVs, can spark fires.
Fireworks (including sparklers, bottle rockets, and smoke balls) are prohibited on federal land regardless of the season or weather. Violators can be subject to a maximum penalty of a $5,000 fine and/or up to six months in jail. Anyone who starts a wildfire can be held liable for suppression costs.
As you plan your visit to the Forest this summer, please “know before you go.” Road and trail conditions can change quickly, and recreation sites can fill up early in the day, so it’s important to have a backup plan. Always check the weather forecast, carry the 10 essentials, and contact one of our district offices for current conditions before your trip.
Have a happy and safe Independence Day!
