Submitted by Olympic National Forest
Due to favorable weather conditions and seasonal changes, the Olympic National Forest has rescinded temporary fire restrictions. Campfires in campgrounds and dispersed areas are now allowed in accordance with standard rules and regulations.
Fire regulations
Campfires and wood-burning camp stoves are only allowed below the 3,500-foot elevation.
All campfires must be extinguished before leaving. Campers are required by law to stay with their campfire from start to finish.
Keep campfires small
A campfire is less likely to escape control if it is kept small.
Large fires may cast hot embers long distances.
Add firewood in small amounts as existing material is consumed.
Dispersed campfires should be built well away from flammable vegetation, and forest litter.
Ensure your fire is dead out before leaving
Extinguish all campfires before leaving – even if gone for a short period of time.
If it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.
Bring a shovel and a bucket of water to extinguish any escaped embers.
When you are ready to leave make sure to
1. Drown all embers with water.
2. Stir the coals.
3. Drown the fire again.
Repeat until the fire is DEAD out!
Attend your campfire at all times
A campfire left unattended for even a few minutes can grow into a costly, damaging wildfire.
Stay with your campfire from start to finish, as required by law.
This ensures any escaped sparks or embers can be extinguished quickly.
By following these safety tips and only having fires in areas where campfires are allowed, visitors can help prevent avoidable wildfires.
Call 911 to report any illegal use of fireworks or unsafe fire use.
Additional campfire and wildfire safety information can be found at the Smokey the Bear website or contact the Olympic National Forest Supervisor’s Office at 360.956.2402.
