For Release: June 22, 2006
Contact: Jeff Fontana, BLM (530) 252-5332 or Leona Rodreick, LNF, (530) 252-6605
BLM-CA-N-06-70

Fire Officials Stress Caution For July Fourth Holiday
Possession and Use of Fireworks Illegal on Public Lands and National Forests

With July Fourth holiday festivities just around the corner, northeast California fire officials are reminding area residents and visitors to use extreme caution with fire, and to heed restrictions on use of fireworks.

"Fire dangers are continuing to rise with the onset of hot weather," said Jim Hedges, co-manager of the Susanville Interagency Fire Center. "It takes just a moment of carelessness to start a devastating wild fire."

Hedges stressed that possession and use of all fireworks - including those approved by the state of California - are illegal on national forests and public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. County and city governments have various regulations regarding fireworks, and holiday revelers should be familiar with local laws before purchasing or using the devices.

Those planning camping trips should also follow basic fire safety tips:

• Keep campfires small, and completely extinguish them before leaving camp. The best method is to douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and douse again, making sure that all ashes are cold to the touch.
  
  
• Charcoal should be soaked in water after use.
  
  
• Smokers should light up only in areas cleared of all flammable debris. Cigarette butts should never be thrown from car windows.

Those exploring the forests and back country in vehicles should stay on established roads and trails, and avoid driving over dry brush and grass that could be ignited by hot exhaust systems.

Firewood cutters should operate chainsaws only in the cool morning hours, and keep a shovel and fire extinguisher nearby. Chainsaws must be equipped with spark arrestors.

Information on current fire dangers is available from any office of the Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, or California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Local fire departments also have information on fire dangers and restrictions, and local fireworks regulations.

-SIFC-

Susanville Interagency Fire Center Command Center Fifth and Cedar Streets Susanville, CA 96130
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection - Lassen National Forest
Bureau of Land Management - Lassen Volcanic National Park

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