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BLM urges hunters, recreationists to prevent wildfires this fall

Wyoming
Media Contact
Cindy Wertz

Cheyenne, Wyo. –  As unusually dry and warm weather persists across the West, so does fire season for Wyoming public lands. The Bureau of Land Management Wyoming reminds outdoor enthusiasts to be cautious while hunting and recreating this fall.

The National Multi-Agency Coordination Group has raised the national preparedness level to 5, which is the highest preparedness level. Firefighting resources are extremely scarce. A highly unusual weather pattern is forecast for the next two weeks, with above normal temperatures and dry conditions across the West. Temperatures will likely average 10 to 20 degrees above normal with very low relative humidity.

Preventable wildfires threaten lives, property and precious resources every year. Because of these volatile conditions, we ask you do to your part to prevent wildfires while recreating on public lands.

Much of Wyoming remains under fire restrictions. Visit www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/wyoming/fire for details. Be aware of local public safety area closures, take precautions before venturing out, and be careful with anything that could start a fire

Here are some tips to reduce the risk of wildfire starts while enjoying your public lands:

  • When camping on public lands, never leave your campfire unattended. Ensure your campfire is “dead” out before leaving or turning in for the night. If your campfire is too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
  • If towing a boat or trailer, ensure your safety chains are properly secure and not dragging on the ground. 
  • Never park your vehicle over dead grass and avoid driving through tall grass—your vehicle can ignite the fuels and start a fire. 
  • If target shooting, please take all the proper precaution measures to be fire-safe—select an area that is free of flammable materials and bring a fire extinguisher or water to extinguish any flames. Exploding targets and tracer ammunition is prohibited for use on all public lands in Wyoming per the year-round wildfire prevention restrictions.

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.