Prevention
With thousands of visitors to the Rio Grande National Forest each year, there is always a risk of human caused wildfires. As the forest vegetation dries that risk elevates and unwanted human caused fires become increasingly more possible and dangerous. Each year escaped campfires are the leading human cause of wildland fires. Learn more about common ways fires are started that will help you do your best to “Prevent Wildfires!”
Fire Restrictions
For current fire restrictions, please check our Fire Restrictions page
Fire restrictions may be implemented when conditions are such that the risk of escape is too high, and any resulting fire would pose a high risk to the safety of visitors in the area. Campfires may be restricted to the controlled, developed recreation sites and when conditions further deteriorate, they will be prohibited altogether. Gas stove may be allowed if certain conditions are met.
When restrictions are in effect, it is prohibited to "build, maintain, attend or use" a campfire in an area where campfires are not allowed. Violation of Stage 1 fire restrictions could result in a maximum fine of $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for more than six months, or both.
Always be sure to check for fire restrictions before visiting your public lands.
Outdoor Fire Safety Tips
Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Be sure to check if you are in an area with campfire restrictions, which will be listed on our Alerts page.
- Where fires are permitted, use established rings.
- Keep fires small.
- Make sure to have water and a shovel to completely extinguish your campfire.
- Burn all wood and coals to ash. Extinguish campfires completely by generously dousing with water and stirring with a shovel. Remember: Drown, Stir, Feel!
Never leave a campfire unattended, it is illegal to do so – even for a short amount of time. Most wildland fires are caused by human activity, including campfires that were abandoned without being properly extinguished. You could be held liable for any firefighting/restoration costs that result from your unattended or abandoned campfire. Make certain your campfire is dead out before leaving your campsite. Read more tips for campfire safety.
There are numerous human causes of wildland fires. Below are just some of the more common cause we see. Simply take a moment to consider how your outdoor activity might start a fire and take whatever steps are necessary to ensure you DON"T start a fire.
- Check to be sure your trailer chains are not dragging
- Don’t park on dry grass
- When target shooting, place your targets in dirt or grass
- Exploding targets are always illegal on federal lands
- Fireworks and sky lanterns are also illegal on federal lands
- Be sure to smoke in a safe area, free of dry vegetation
- Use a chainsaw only in an area where sparks cannot start a fire
Smokey Bear has great information on his equipment and maintenance website.
Important Note
If a fire results from your actions such as an escaped campfire or illegal use of fireworks, you can be subject to a citation and a fine. You may also be held liable for the suppression costs of that fire. Suppression efforts are very costly, often running into hundreds of thousands of dollars or more.
Remember to be extra careful out on the woods and you’ll be fine!
Home Protection
For information on home and property protection, please visit the Fire Protection section our Fire Management page.