As Californians make their Memorial Day weekend and summer vacation plans, CAL FIRE and federal fire agencies want to ensure vacationers obtain necessary campfire permits and learn how to have a campfire safely. The California Wildfire Coordination Group (CWCG) unveiled the new fire prevention website, www.PreventWildfireCA.org, which for the first time offers an online campfire permit section. 

“The new online system makes it easier for Californians to get a permit, while still taking the time to learn how to have a campfire safely,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, CAL FIRE director. “It is critical that a responsible adult be in attendance of your campfire at all times and that it is completely extinguished before you leave to avoid sparking a wildfire. One less spark means one less wildfire.”

Fire officials from the CWCG, an interagency wildfire group comprised of local, state and federal fire agencies including CAL FIRE, spent months creating the new system which includes a short video and test prior to issuing the permit. While permits are still available at any CAL FIRE, US Forest Service, or BLM station or office, the online option is a quick and easy way to obtain a permit before beginning any trip in California; all a person needs is a computer with internet access and a printer. After watching a brief video on proper campfire techniques, the applicant will take a short quiz about the video and then receive their printable permit for free. 

CAL FIRE reminds everyone that fire safety plays an important role outdoors, especially when it comes to campfires and outdoor cooking. Many unattended and improperly extinguished campfires have resulted in wildfires.  With California in a severe drought and extremely dry conditions, not taking the time to ensure you have completely extinguished your campfire could result in a devastating wildfire.

Campfires can also be extremely dangerous for children and should never be allowed to play around them or outdoor cooking appliances. Devastating burn injuries are all too common when these safety rules are not followed. Just a little forethought could protect you and your family.

Here are some simple tips to ensure a safe campfire:

·         Obtain a campfire permit and make sure there are not fire restrictions in the area.

·         Use only approved and established campgrounds and campfire rings.

·         Locate the campfire a safe distance away from tents, trees, or buildings.

·         Clear the area around your campfire down to soil 5 feet from the fire’s edge.

·         Never let children use or play with lighter fluid or have them start a campfire.

·         Completely extinguish campfires before leaving or going to bed.

To obtain an online campfire permit or to learn more fire prevention tips on “One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire” visit PreventWildfireCA.org.