Even though fall is in the air, careless actions can spark a wildfire this time of year. Grasses, brush and other fine fuels parched by the summer’s heat can ignite from a variety of sources – an errant spark from a campfire or warming fire, a discarded cigarette, or a hot exhaust system contacting vegetation. And under fall conditions, these fire starts often don’t become apparent until hours or even days later.
For hunters, a warming fire built on a hillside in the early morning hours takes the chill off. But before you move on, is the fire really out? Even when there is no smoke the ashes can retain heat. On the next sunny day, a little wind can rekindle that “dead” fire and cause it to spread into a wildfire.
Before heading to the forest, be sure to check the rules to learn whether warming fires and campfires are allowed. The safest place for a campfire is in a campground with established fire pits. Before leaving a fire, be sure to douse it repeatedly with water, stirring the ashes each time to ensure it is completely extinguished.
When driving a full-sized vehicle or ATV in the forest, always carry fire equipment required by the jurisdictional land management agency. And before heading to your hunting location, check the current rules on vehicle use. In some areas, off-road use of motorized vehicles may be prohibited.
Likewise with smoking: Check the rules. Depending on the fire danger level, smoking may be restricted to inside a closed vehicle or building. In any case, never discard smoking materials in grass or other vegetation.
For additional fire safety tips and current fire restrictions, contact the Oregon Department of Forestry or the Keep Oregon Green Association.