Outdoors Safety: Preventing Wildfires While Camping and Hiking

Enjoying the great outdoors is a cherished American tradition—especially in the West. But with that privilege comes a great responsibility: preventing wildfires.

A single mistake—like leaving a campfire unattended or flicking a cigarette—can ignite a blaze that scorches thousands of acres. Fortunately, most human-caused wildfires are entirely preventable. This guide offers key tips for campers and outdoor enthusiasts to keep nature wild and fire-free.

1. Campfire Safety Etiquette

A campfire under the stars is magical, but also one of the greatest fire risks.

• Check regulations before building a fire. Many areas require campfire permits (e.g., federal lands in California require free permits) (readyforwildfire.org). Fires may be banned entirely during high-risk periods.

• Use existing fire rings instead of creating new ones.

• Clear at least 10 feet around the fire pit. Remove leaves, pine needles, and anything flammable (readyforwildfire.org).

• Keep the fire small and manageable. Bigger isn't better—it’s more dangerous (readyforwildfire.org).

• Never leave it unattended. Assign an adult to monitor it at all times (readyforwildfire.org).

• Keep a shovel and a bucket of water nearby in case winds pick up or sparks fly (readyforwildfire.org).

2. Properly Extinguish Your Campfire

Don't assume your fire is out—verify it.

• Drown, stir, and feel. Soak every inch of the fire pit with water, stir the ashes, and drown it again (readyforwildfire.org).

• Feel the ashes carefully—if they’re warm, it’s not out yet.

• Don’t just bury the fire. Buried coals can smolder and reignite.

• A fire is only out if you can touch the coals with your bare hand and feel no heat.

3. Camp Stoves vs. Campfires

In high-risk areas, consider skipping the fire altogether.

• Camp stoves are safer and usually allowed even during fire bans.

• Place stoves on stable, non-flammable surfaces like dirt or rocks.

• Let stoves cool before packing up. They offer safety and a leave-no-trace advantage.

4. Smoking and Cigarettes

Cigarettes are a major wildfire threat.

• Never toss butts on the ground or out of a vehicle.

• Use a butt container (a mint tin works).

• Ensure butts are extinguished—use water or crush into bare dirt.

• Smoke away from dry brush or leaves, and follow smoking bans where applicable.

5. Vehicles and OHVs

Vehicles can spark wildfires in surprising ways.

• Never park on dry grass. A hot catalytic converter can ignite vegetation.

• Ensure spark arrestors are installed on off-highway vehicles (required by law).

• Maintain your vehicle—avoid leaks, backfires, or dragging chains.

• Dragging trailer chains can cause roadside sparks (blm.gov, smithsonianmag.com).

6. Firearms and Target Shooting

Firearms can inadvertently start fires.

• Avoid shooting in hot, dry conditions—especially at metal or rocky targets.

• Refrain from using steel-core bullets or exploding targets (banned in many areas) (smithsonianmag.com).

• Always bring water or a fire extinguisher just in case.

• Check local fire restrictions—some areas ban all shooting during high-risk periods.

7. Trail Safety and Recreational Fires

Even small gear can spark danger.

• Treat twig stoves and campfire candles with the same caution as open flames.

• Hang gas lanterns safely, away from tents and branches.

• Fully extinguish charcoal coals before disposal—never dump hot coals in trash.

8. Be Prepared to Fight a Fire

You don’t need to be a firefighter—but you can act quickly.

• Carry a collapsible bucket, shovel, and water.

• If a small fire escapes, you may be able to stop it: pour water, smother with dirt, or beat it out with a green branch.

• If it grows, back away and call for help.

9. Report Fires Immediately

If you see smoke or fire:

• Call 911 with your location (use GPS or visible landmarks).

• Don’t assume someone else has reported it.

• If you find an abandoned campfire, extinguish it fully or report it if it’s unsafe.

10. Respect Fire Bans and Seasonal Restrictions

Fire bans are serious and based on data.

• During bans, all open flames may be prohibited—even some stoves.

• Fireworks are almost always illegal on public lands.

• Check local conditions before you go: “Know before you go.”

Final Thoughts

Camping and hiking are still possible during fire season—with care.

Following safety rules, extinguishing fires thoroughly, avoiding spark-prone equipment, and respecting local restrictions all help prevent devastating wildfires.

As Smokey Bear reminds us: “Only YOU can prevent forest fires.” Let’s enjoy nature—and keep it safe for future generations.