This Friday, August 9, marks Smokey Bear’s 80th birthday 🥳 Smokey’s campaign for responsible fire management (you know, “Only YOU can prevent forest fires!”) has been going strong since 1944. Coming on the heels of multiple Front Range wildfires last week — at least two of which have been determined to be human-caused — Smokey’s message feels as relevant today as it was 80 years ago (maybe even more so — thanks, climate change 🫠).
The U.S. Forest Service reports that roughly 9 out of 10 wildfires are caused by humans. So here are some tips for managing your fire responsibly the next time you’re lighting up a campfire or grilling on a hot day. Make Smokey proud 🐻🌲
🔎 Common Wildfire Causes
- Campfires and open burning
- Faulty outdoor equipment or vehicles
- Firearms, fireworks, and explosives
- Cigarettes (or cigars, joints, and the like)
🚩 Check the Weather
When fire conditions are high (dry, warm, and windy), avoid all activities that involve live fire, no matter how seemingly mundane — including grilling, smoking, and using fire pits.
🔥 Open Flame Supervision
Always check the area you’re in for burn permit requirements or fire bans before igniting a flame. Live fire of any kind should never be left unattended for any period of time. Burn piles and campfires are best contained in a deep pit or a metal ring and kept to a small, controllable size. The area all around it should be clear of flammable materials. Always have water and a shovel nearby.
🧯 Proper Extinguishing
To properly put out campfires and burn piles, douse the flames with water then stir the ash and coals around before adding more water. Repeat this process until you can hold your hand over the ash without feeling any heat. For extra caution, add a layer of dirt. As Smokey says: “If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.”
🛻 Regular Equipment Maintenance
This includes your personal vehicle, ATVs, trailers, boats, and generators — anything with a small portable engine. Mechanical malfunctions can create sparks that, in the right conditions, can ignite a fire.
🧨 Responsible Recreation
You should only shoot firearms or operate fireworks in areas where it is expressly permitted and not under any type of fire restrictions. The area should be completely clear of flammable materials and vegetation.
