Missouri – The Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding everyone to be especially careful when you are celebrating your summer with fireworks or campfires. Here are some reminders and tips as you go out to start your summer fun.
Don’t light fireworks in any areas where the sparks could ignite dry grass, leaves, or other potential fire fuel. Always have a way to put out flames near you whether it is a hose or fire extinguisher. Wet the area around where you are shooting off fireworks. Fireworks are not allowed in conservation areas.
When making a campfire clear a zone around your fire ring. Store unused firewood a good distance away. Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquid to start a fire. Keep them small and controllable. Extinguish campfires each night and before leaving camp at any time.
While burning outdoors make sure you have the right conditions. Dry grass, high temperatures, low humidity, and wind make it very difficult to burn safely. A person who starts a fire for any reason is responsible for any damage caused.
Think twice before driving off the road and into a field. Never park over tall, dry grass or piles of leaves that can touch the underside of your vehicle. Wildfires can start when dry fuel, such as grass, comes in contact with catalytic converters.
Call for help at the first sign of a fire getting out of control.
