PORTLAND, Ore. – Statewide fire restrictions remain in effect for all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout Oregon and Washington, and many local regions have additional restrictions in place. BLM leaders encourage all visitors to be aware of all active restrictions and closures as warmer weather sets in around the Pacific Northwest.
“Every visitor to public lands can take additional precautions to lower the risk of starting a fire,” said Kim Prill, BLM Oregon/Washington Acting State Director. “Just one spark can start a wildfire.”
Visitors should research their destinations in advance, as restrictions vary by location and jurisdiction. The use of fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices, and sky lanterns remain prohibited.
“Preventing human caused fires is one of the best ways we can all work together to keep our firefighters and our communities safe,” added Josh O’Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service.
Many local restrictions address questions of when visitors can use power tools, what kinds of stoves or campfires are allowed, and what type of safety equipment to have on hand.
Vehicle Maintenance and Parking Safety
As roadside brush dries out, vehicles become a primary source of accidental ignitions. Drivers are urged to properly maintain their vehicles and avoid parking or idling on tall, dry grass. Even without a spark, the intense heat from a vehicle's exhaust system or catalytic converter can ignite vegetation beneath the car in a matter of seconds. Motorists should stick to established roads, gravel turnouts, or cleared parking areas.
Safe Towing and Equipment Practices
Towing trailers or driving recreational vehicles requires extra vigilance during fire season. Motorists must ensure that tow chains are properly secured and not dragging on the pavement. Loose metal links striking the highway create a continuous stream of sparks that can easily ignite the roadside. Additionally, all off-highway vehicles, chainsaws, and portable generators operated on public lands should be equipped with a properly functioning spark arrestor to stop hot embers from escaping.
For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.
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