Forest Service Found 24 Abandoned Campfires In Colorado Forest Over Memorial Day Weekend

U.S. Forest Service officials in Colorado say firefighters found 24 abandoned campfires in the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (PSICC) over Memorial Day Weekend, prompting warnings about fire hazards as summer visitation ramps up.

Over the holiday weekend, firefighters working fire prevention patrols on the PSICC found 24 abandoned campfires and responded to four wildfires across the forest. Three of the wildfires were caused by humans, while one was caused by lightning.

“The wildfires were quickly contained but triggered the reminder that we all must do our part to not let a wildfire start,” forest officials said.

“While the vast majority of forest visitors camp responsibly, it takes only one spark, from recreational target shooting, dragging chains or an abandoned campfire, in the wrong place at the wrong time to put human lives, natural and cultural resources and infrastructure at risk,” the agency said.

The Forest Service shared a video on how to properly extinguish a campfire, and is encouraging visitors to brush up on their fire safety skills.

“Never abandon or leave a campfire unattended. Always have plenty of water and a shovel nearby,” the agency said. “When its time to leave, extinguish your campfire by drowning, stirring, and repeating until its the consistency of a mud pie and cold to the touch.”

The agency is asking any visitors who encounter an abandoned campfire to extinguish it, if possible, or to call the local PSICC nonemergency number at 719-553-1400 to report it.