BLM Encourages Cautious Fourth Celebrations 

DENVER – BLM Colorado is encouraging the public to be careful when building fires or using fireworks this holiday weekend despite fire danger being lower than past years.  Colorado’s wet spring has lead to a high volume of grass.  This grass is quickly drying out due to recent high temperatures and has a high fire potential.

“People need to be cautious with fire in grassy areas,” said Bill Wallis, BLM Colorado Fire Management Officer. “Grasses are always a concern because they are light, flashy fuels.”

Flashy fuels, such as grasses, are dangerous because their fuel moisture levels can vary greatly with changes in precipitation and temperature.  It does not take long for a green, grassy field to become a fire hazard if temperatures are high and precipitation is low.

The BLM encourages public lands users to check with their local BLM, Forest Service or County Officials for the latest burning restrictions and fire prevention ordinances in recreation areas.

“It’s very important that everyone is mindful of the specific fuel types and fire hazards in areas where they are recreating,” said Wallis.

People should not only be aware of the site-specific fire regulations, but also the site-specific fire potential.  Fire danger varies throughout all of Colorado and users need to be aware of what the fire danger is where they are.

“Western Colorado has higher fire danger than other parts of the state,” said Larry Helmerick of the Rocky Mountain Area Fire Coordination Center.  “This is especially important to be aware of with the higher temperatures and lower precipitation expected throughout the weekend.”

The BLM urges public lands users to be aware of fire risks and take responsibility for their personal fire use.  When using fire on public lands, one should keep in mind the Colorado Department of Emergency Management’s tips:

·             Be careful with smoke and campfires - build fires only in designated rings or grates.

·             Use self-contained cookers or chemical stoves.

·             Keep hot mufflers and catalytic converters clear of grasses and shrubs.

·             Burn debris with care.

·             If you see smoke or a fire, call the county sheriff’s office first. They will notify the correct agencies.

·             Think about where you would go to flee a fire, what you would take, how you would get out, and an alternate route out in case the one you're planning on is blocked--it's the same kind of planning you do with your family for escaping a fire in your home.

·             Know your personal limitations. Don't put yourself or others at risk.

BLM Colorado welcomes visitors to the public lands during the 4th of July holiday, but do so with knowledge of the conditions and restriction of the area you are visiting.  Using or even possessing fireworks is illegal on all public lands administered by the BLM, Forest Service and State of Colorado

-BLM-