BLM, Wildland Fire Service issue public use restrictions to reduce human-caused fires

MEDFORD, Ore. — To reduce the risk of human-caused fires, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Wildland Fire Service officials will restrict certain activities on public lands in Southwest Oregon starting May 15.

“Every time you visit public lands, you play an important role in our fire prevention strategy,” said Mike McCann, fire management officer for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. “Before you head out, learn what fire restrictions are in place and make sure you have the required equipment.” 

Before visiting your public lands, visit BLM Oregon/Washington’s fire restriction webpage to see what fire restrictions are in effect for the area you are planning to go. As the weather warms up, fuels are rapidly drying out and firefighters are responding to more fires. Here are just a few actions you can take to prevent wildfires while on public lands:

• If you have a campfire, you are required to have a gallon of water or a 2.5 pound fire extinguisher and a shovel. Make sure your fire is “dead out” – add lots of water, use your shovel to stir the embers and dirt, and continue adding water and stirring until it is cool to the touch.
• While traveling in a motor vehicle, visitors must have one shovel and one gallon of water or one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher. (This requirement does not apply to travel on state highways, county roads, or driveways.) All-terrain vehicles and motorcycles must be equipped with one 2.5 pound or larger fire extinguisher.
• Smoking is prohibited while traveling, except in vehicles on roads or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is cleared of all flammable material.
• Power saw users must have a shovel and an 8-ounce (or larger) fire extinguisher and must maintain a firewatch for at least one hour after saw use. Currently, use of power saws is permitted all day, as long as the area remains in low fire danger.
• Fireworks are prohibited on BLM public lands, along with exploding targets, metal targets, and firing tracer or incendiary devices. 

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service manages wildfire prevention, response, and recovery across lands administered by the Interior Department. It conducts these operations in close coordination with Interior’s land management agencies. Together, we are fostering fire-resilient landscapes and safeguarding communities.