Ellering: Follow these national forest recreation fire safety tips

During the summer, thousands of Arizonans visit national forests to enjoy recreational time with family and friends.

Activities include camping, off-roading, recreational target shooting and boating.

All of these are fun ways to enjoy Arizona’s landscape, but in the middle of the summer when temperatures are the hottest there are also hazards to be aware of.

Whether you visit the high country in Flagstaff or the Superstition Mountains east of the Valley, wildfire risks are always high.

Every year in Arizona, nine out of 10 fires are started by human error, and more than 80% of fires that occurred in Arizona were started by humans, according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. In 2021, there were 1,267 fires reported that were started by humans.

According to the National Park Service, the top reasons for human-caused fires include: unattended campfires, improper equipment use, burning of debris, and stray cigarettes.

Human-made wildfires can be easily avoided with the proper fire safety knowledge and tips.

Before starting a campfire, always check for any fire restrictions. Due to Arizona’s extremely dry and hot summer weather, the Bureau of Land Management has implemented Stage 2 fire restrictions in three of its four Arizona districts. In short, campfires are temporarily prohibited until Arizona receives substantial rainfall.

During the Stage 2 fire restriction, activities such as shooting a firearm or air rifle are prohibited unless you are on a lawful hunt in compliance with state, federal or tribal laws. Fireworks are also prohibited year-round in Bureau of Land Management areas in Arizona.

All campfires should be built and maintained within a stove, grill or traditional campfire ring. In the event you come across a burning campfire, always carry an emergency supply of water, sand, or dirt. These options of dousing materials can extinguish a fire quickly and safely.

Wildfires can easily be sparked by the vehicle you are driving. Car parts such as catalytic converters or the exhaust can reach anywhere from 200 to 600 degrees. If your car’s undercarriage is very hot and comes in contact with tall grass or dry bushes, it can ignite quickly turning into a wildfire within minutes.

If you plan on traveling to a national forest area, be sure to stay 5-10 feet away from any form of dry vegetation. If you plan on off-roading on one of Arizona’s hundreds of trails, make sure you always stay on the designated trail and carry emergency fire safety gear as well.

If you plan on towing anything such as a camping trailer, be sure to check and secure your tow chain so they aren’t dragging. Dragging chains can cause sparks along the road and can ignite brush or grass alongside a highway or roadway.

Take a couple of minutes to check your tire pressures and make sure that they are inflated properly and are in good condition. Blowouts are known to spark wildfires as well.

If you choose to travel and explore Arizona’s national forests this summer, be sure to follow these tips, enjoy the outdoors, and leave no trace!

About the author

Katie Ellering is one of the owners and the self-appointed mayor of Tortilla Flat, which is a piece of Arizona’s western history nestled in the Superstition Mountains and one of Arizona’s most historic sites.