Safety tips on campfires in Colorado

A majority of wildfires are created by people, and one of the most common causes is unattended campfires.

Since it is wildfire season, we thought we would share a few safety tips on creating, maintaining and extinguishing a campfire.

First you have to pick a safe spot to set up.

Do not build a fire in dry conditions
Use a fire pit or fire ring
Pick a spot that is at least 15 feet away from your tent walls, trees, or anything else that could catch on fire

Next is how to be safe once the flame is active.

Keep your fire at a manageable level
Never leave the campfire unattended

Lastly is the best way to extinguish your campfire.

Allow wood to burn completely to ash
Pour lots of water on the fire and drown all of the embers
Stir the ashes and embers with a shovel
Do not leave your campground or campsite until the embers are cool to the touch.

For more campfire safety tips, visit the Smokey Bear and U.S. Forest Service website.