Forest Service News Release
Yreka, Calif., June 30, 2023—The Klamath National Forest is excited to welcome outdoor enthusiasts as they gear up for the upcoming Independence Day festivities. Celebrating this national holiday outdoors is a cherished tradition across the United States. However, it is crucial to remember that fireworks and pyrotechnics are strictly prohibited on public lands. This prohibition applies to every forest, campsite, and day of the year.
As the temperatures rise in northern California, the potential for forest fires increases rapidly throughout the North State. Before embarking on your adventure, we urge you to check the Klamath National Forest’s website (www.fs.usda.gov/klamath) for the current fire danger level and any public use restrictions that are in effect.
To prevent wildfires, please follow these essential steps:
- Flammable Items: It is strictly prohibited to use any fireworks, explosives, or internal or external combustion engines without a spark arrestor on the forest. Exercise caution when smoking and ensure that all smoking materials are thoroughly extinguished on bare soil. Remember to pack out all cigarette butts and filters.
- Campfires: Campfire permits are mandatory for the use of campfires, charcoal fires, or portable gas stoves. You can obtain permits online at https://www.readyforwildfire.org/permits/campfire-permit. Clear all flammable materials at least five feet away from the fire in all directions. Keep a shovel and sufficient water nearby to extinguish the campfire. Never leave the fire unattended and avoid building a campfire on windy days. Once you are ready to leave, ensure that the fire is completely extinguished by drowning it with water, stirring it with a shovel, drowning it again, and checking for any remaining heat using the back of your hand.
- Camp Stoves: If you are using a portable stove, ensure that the area is clear of grasses and other debris that could ignite. Take precautions to prevent stoves from tipping over.
- Vehicle Safety: When towing a trailer, ensure that tow chains are not dragging on the pavement or rocks, which could create sparks. Park your vehicles on surfaces that are free from vegetation, as the hot undercarriage can ignite dry grass. Always carry a fire extinguisher or several gallons of water when traveling in remote areas. Before using motorized equipment such as chainsaws, dirt bikes, or off-road vehicles (where permitted), test the spark arrestors to ensure they are in working order.
- Burned Areas: While enjoying recreational activities in the forest, exercise caution and remain aware of potential hazards in burned areas. These hazards include dead standing trees, fallen trees, dropped limbs, stump holes, and unstable terrain. Although main forest roads have been cleared, hazards still exist in many areas, such as falling trees, snags, rolling rocks, and debris. Road conditions can change unexpectedly.
On Tuesday, July 4, 2023, all Klamath National Forest offices will be closed in observance of the holiday. Regular business hours will resume on Wednesday, July 5, 2023.
Remember, the USDA Forest Service encourages responsible recreation to prevent wildfires. This includes being aware of any fire restrictions before starting a campfire, carrying tools to extinguish flames, and promptly reporting any fires by calling 911.
We extend our gratitude to all those who contribute to keeping our forests safe and free from wildfires. Thank you for your cooperation and enjoy your outdoor adventures responsibly!
