HOOD RIVER, Ore. (September 17, 2024) — Recent cooler weather conditions across the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area has decreased fire danger, prompting fire managers to lift all Public Use Restrictions pertaining to campfires, smoking and other activities, effective at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, September 18, 2024.
The public is encouraged to practice safe campfire principles and be cautious with any potential ignition sources. Vegetation remains dry and can be susceptible to sparks. Human-caused wildfire starts can exhaust local firefighting resources as many firefighters remain engaged in fighting fires across the Pacific Northwest. Scenic Area officials recommend the following safety precautions to help prevent wildfires:
- When smoking, always dispose of cigarette debris in some type of ashtray.
- Avoid driving and parking in tall grass or on roads with heavy fine fuel accumulations. Exhaust particles, hot exhaust pipes and hot catalytic converters can start grass fires. Maintain proper tire pressure, as exposed wheel rims can throw sparks.
- When using chains for towing, ensure they are not dragging on the ground or close enough that they can make a spark.
- Make sure your campfire is completely out and cold to the touch before leaving.
Fire restrictions may still be in effect on neighboring State and private lands protected by Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), and Washington Department of Natural Resources (WA-DNR). Please remember that it is everyone’s responsibility to know what restrictions are in place when visiting public lands. For more information regarding restrictions near you, please visit:
Oregon Department of Forestry: https://www.oregon.gov/ODF/Fire/Pages/Restrictions.aspx
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.feature-article&articleId=290
Washington Department of Natural Resources: http://www.dnr.wa.gov/
Additional campfires safety tips are available at: https://tinyurl.com/3j3tmm44
Additional information about the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is available at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/crgnsa
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