Campfires temporarily banned on Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

The USDA Forest Service is banning all campfires across the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest (Forest) in response to high fire danger resulting from the dry conditions caused by the severe drought and unseasonably warm temperatures in Georgia.

The fire ban closure order is effective today, November 14 through December 16, and covers all three Ranger Districts on the Chattahoochee National Forest in North Georgia.

The fire ban by the Forest Service is supported by several counties in North Georgia who already instituted local fire bans.

Most fires are human-caused and the fire bans are an effective tool to prevent wildfires on the Forest near residences located in the wildland-urban interface (WUI).

“Most people are shocked when they hear how many wildfires happen here in the South,” said Forest Supervisor Judy Toppins. “Since November 1, there have been several fires on this national forest, as well as several large fires on adjacent private forests and on national forests in neighboring states.”

Fortunately, to date, initial attack fire suppression efforts by Forest staff were able to contain these fires before they grew too large. Across the South, wildland firefighters work tirelessly to control wildfires and keep our communities safe.

Mike Davis, fire management officer for the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, reiterated the importance of following Forest and county burn bans. During heightened wildfire season, residents should avoid burning and he recommends raking leaves and other yard debris out 30 feet from any buildings to minimize the risk of wildfire spreading to your home.

“Leaves and other dead plant debris are easy fuel for wildfires. Even with a bit of rain or fog in the morning, our warm, breezy days dry those smaller fuels out quickly,” said Davis. “It’s important that Forest visitors and residents of our neighboring communities take preventative actions now to reduce these hazardous fuels that can easily ignite with just one spark.”

On average, 87 percent of wildfires are caused by people. These fires happen when people burn debris, leave campfires unattended or even commit acts of arson. Fires also can be caused unintentionally by heat and sparks from vehicles and equipment.

Always remember Smokey’s message – “Only You Can Prevent Wildfires” – and use these precautions before heading outdoors.

The fire ban prohibits the use of a fire or campfire, including charcoal-based fires, or using fireworks. Commercially available fuel stoves are allowed. More information about the closure order is available at: www.fs.usda.gov/conf.