Staying safe with fire this July 4

With Fourth of July festivities happening tomorrow, the Wyoming Bureau of Land Management offers tips on how to be cautious with fireworks, campfires and other fire-involving activities.

“Currently, the fire danger ranges from moderate to high throughout the state,” said Fire Management Office Kyle Cowan. “We are asking the public to be careful when they are out recreating on public lands July 4, and remind everyone that fireworks are prohibited on BLM lands in Wyoming.”

Recreationists need to be aware the BLM places year-round restrictions on public lands along with additional restrictions. To receive up-to-date information on where fire restrictions are in effect on BLM lands, visit http://www.wy.blm.gov/wy_fire_restrictions.

• BLM year-round fire restrictions and recommendations include the following:

• Discharging or using any fireworks.

• Discharging a firearm using incendiary or tracer ammunition.

• Burning, igniting or causing to burn any tire, wire, magnesium or other hazardous or explosive material.

• Operating any off-load vehicle on public lands unless the vehicle is equipped with a properly installed spark arrester.

• Make sure campfires are “dead” out.

• Remember that fireworks are prohibited on BLM lands in Wyoming.

• Travel and camp with a shovel, fire extinguisher and ample water.

• Attempt to confine smoking within a vehicle or cleared area.