Across the country, 90% of wildfires are caused by humans. 

Agencies in Northwest Colorado are working to combat that statistic by issuing reminders and restrictions ahead of the holiday weekend. 

A stage 1 fire restriction began within the boundaries of Moffat County on Thursday. The restriction was put in place by the Bureau of Land Management Little Snake Field Office in an effort to protect the public’s safety during a time of high fire danger, according to a news release. 

“Due to critically dry fuels, and forecasted dry weather patterns, we must reduce the risk of wildfire for public safety,” said Little Snake Field Office Manager Kymm Gresset, in the release. “These are thoughtfully considered as a proactive measure aimed at protecting our communities and natural resources.” 

Here are the prohibited acts in a stage 1 fire restriction:

• Do not build or use a fire or campfire except within agency-provided fire grates at recreation sites. Gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel to start a fire is not allowed. 
• No smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle/building or while stopped in an area that has at least 3 feet in diameter cleared of all flammable material. 
• Do not operate a chainsaw without a USDA or SAE approved spark arrester installed and working. 
• Do not use any type of torch with an open flame, except in cleared areas of at least 10 feet in diameter with a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher of 8-ounce capacity or more.
• No using exploding targets or fireworks.

The stage 1 restrictions will be in place across Moffat County until further notice. Violations of these restrictions will be punishable by a fine of no more than $1,000 and/or imprisonment for up to a year. Those found responsible for starting a wildfire will face restitution costs of suppressing the fire. 

Up-to-date fire restriction alerts for the BLM Northwest Distrcit can be found at BLM.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire-and-aviation/regional-information/colorado/northwest-district.

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests Tips

Earlier this week Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland issued tips for preventing human-caused wildfires. 

Fireworks are never permitted in the MBRTB areas. Visitors should never drive or park on dry grass due to the potential for hot exhaust pipes to start a fire. 

Those pulling a trailer should ensure safety chains and other metal parts are not hanging from the vehicle as dragging chains can cause sparks. 

In areas where campfires are allowed, select sites with an existing ring. Fire pits in established campgrounds are recommended. 

Those who choose to build a campfire should avoid building near tents, structures, vehicles, shrubs or trees. The site should be clear down to bare soil, at 5 feet on all sides, and circle it with rocks. Unused firewood should be stored away from the fire. 

Campfires should never be left unattended. Make sure the fire is “dead out” and cold to the touch before leaving a campsite. 

Recreators are asked to consider campfire alternatives like portable gas stoves that use bottled, liquid fuels or a propane fire ring. 

Target shooters are asked to practice proper firearm safety as well. Targets should be paper and placed on dirt or gravel. Avoid exploding ammunition and bring a shovel and fire extinguisher for emergencies. Fires should be reported by calling 911. 

All MBRTB offices will be closed for the Fourth of July holiday. More fire information can be found at fs.usda.gov/r02/mbrtb/fire.