NEWS RELEASE
USDA Forest Service
Lincoln National Forest         
1101 New York Avenue 
Alamogordo, NM  88310
                                      
 		        	      		       		 Contact:  Joe Garcia (575) 434-7200
For Immediate Release 		Wildfire Prevention Team – (575) 627-0310

Date:	April 18, 2008

                         	Wildfire Prevention Tips for Hunters				

Turkey Hunting season on the Lincoln National Forest runs from April 15 until May 10.  “For many hunters, this is their favorite time of the year,” said Chad Stewart, Fire Staff Officer for the Lincoln National Forest.  He added, “While in the forest enjoying the outdoors, hunters need to be very careful and obey all fire restrictions.  Our forests are extremely dry and fires can spread rapidly.”  
	This year it is especially important to be careful with outdoor activities.  Wildfire danger throughout southeastern New Mexico remains very high because of abnormally warm temperatures, low humidity, high winds and the abundance of dry, fine fire fuels like tall grasses.
The following tips will help hunters and others remain safe and help to keep wildfire out of the forests:
•	Remember Stage II Fire Restrictions are still in effect; campfires and other open flames are NOT permitted.

•	Do not smoke outdoors.

•	Do not park on dry grass.  A vehicle’s exhaust and catalytic converter can easily start a fire.

•	Keep spark arresters in proper working order on internal and external combustion engines.

•	Call 911 to report a fire or suspicious activity.

•	Do your part – don’t let wildfire start.

For more information on the Lincoln National Forest, please go to www.fs.fed.us/r3/lincoln. 

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