Wyoming Game and Fish Department Urges Hunters to Prioritize Fire Safety Amidst Elevated Wildfire Risks

With hunting season underway in Wyoming, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department  is urging hunters to exercise extreme caution regarding fire safety.

 

Recent dry conditions and high temperatures have significantly increased the risk of wildfires across the state.

 

To mitigate potential hazards, the department has implemented fire bans on all Game and Fish Commission-owned and administered lands within Sublette, Teton, and Lincoln counties, effective immediately.

 

These restrictions encompass 18 Wildlife Habitat Management Areas and 43 Public Access Areas across the three counties.

 

Prohibited activities during the fire ban include:

 

Building, maintaining, attending, or using any fire, campfire, charcoal grill, coal, or wood-burning stove.

 

Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, at a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

 

Lighting fireworks, which are always prohibited on Commission-owned lands.

 

Hunters are encouraged to stay away from active burn areas for their own safety and the safety of firefighters.

 

A fire that starts and burns through the fall can significantly affect hunting access.

 

To prevent these impacts, land management agencies may institute fire bans or restrictions.

 

To ensure a safe hunting season, the department recommends the following fire prevention measures:

 

Check for restrictions: Before camping, consult with the relevant land management agency (U.S. Forest Service, BLM, State Land) to determine if any fire bans or restrictions are in place.

 

Extinguish completely: Never leave a campfire unattended. Drown fires with ample water and dirt, stir the ashes, and ensure all remnants are cold to the touch before departing.

 

Clear the area: Remove all flammable materials from the ground and avoid building fires under or at the base of trees, as fire can burn into roots and smolder for days.

 

Use caution: Refrain from starting warming fires during windy conditions. Utilize several gallons of water to fully extinguish fires, not just a water bottle, and ensure that chains are not dragging on the ground while driving.

 

Violating fire restrictions or causing a wildfire through negligence can result in fines up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

 

Additionally, responsible parties may be charged for the costs of extinguishing the fire.

 

For the most current information on fire restrictions and safety guidelines, hunters should visit the Wyoming Game and Fish Department's fire ban webpage.

 

By adhering to these precautions, hunters can help protect Wyoming's wildlife habitats and ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting season for all.