[ODF_Private_Forests] Fourth of July fire safety reminder

[WEEKS Kevin]

The Keep Oregon Green Association issued the following news release today:

For Immediate Release                                               Major Media Distribution
June 30, 2010                                                           Contact:  Mary Ellen Holly
                                                                                503-559-7011

Wildfire season is now in effect across the state.

The Keep Oregon Green Association is cautioning Oregonians to use extreme caution when visiting the forests this weekend.  Although it seems like it should still be wet enough to eliminate fire danger, 45 human-caused wildfires have already been fought and suppressed by Oregon firefighters.

Many Oregonians love the great outdoors, and no matter what the recreational activity, sitting around a campfire is one of the special times we all enjoy.

During the 2009 wildfire season, however, 116 escaped or abandoned campfires burned over 200 acres on state and private lands.

Here's what you can do to avoid causing Oregon's next wildfire:

*       Always call the local fire district to assure that fires are allowed where you're going to camp.  If they are allowed, and you choose to camp in an undeveloped campground, here are a few suggestions to ensure that your campfires will be safe.

*       When selecting a site for a campfire, avoid areas near buildings, fallen trees, tree trunks, or low overhanging branches.

*       Scrape all leaves and litter away down to bare earth for at least five feet on all sides of the fire.  Dig a pit in the center of this circle and surround it with rocks.

*       Build your campfire downwind and at a safe distance from your tent, never leave it unattended, and after you light it, thrown your match into the fire.  If any sparks escape the campfire, have a shovel or rake handy to suppress them.

When it's time to leave the campfire and head to bed or back to town, make sure you put the campfire out - DEAD OUT!

*       Drown all embers, sticks, and coals, especially those that might have fallen under the rocks

*       Stir the coals to make sure all heat has been removed

*       Drown the area again

Please remember that wildfire prevention is your individual responsibility.  Be alert to weather conditions, especially wind; and ALWAYS be careful with fire.  Leave your fireworks home - they don't belong in the forests.  By being responsible, we can all Keep Oregon Green and have a safe 4th of July weekend

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For the Private Forests News service:
Kevin Weeks
Oregon Department of Forestry
(503) 945-7427

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