Prevention

Protecting Our Forest, One Campfire at a Time

Fire is a natural part of this ecosystem, shaping habitats and reducing fuel loads when managed correctly. However, uncontrolled wildfires—often sparked by human activity—can devastate lives, homes, and natural resources. Here’s how you can help keep the Caribou-Targhee safe, with a special focus on the "out cold" process and other key fire prevention tips.

The Role of Fire in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest

In the Caribou-Targhee, fire isn’t always the enemy. Managed wildfires and prescribed burns, overseen by the U.S. Forest Service, help maintain healthy ecosystems by clearing out dead vegetation, reducing the risk of larger, more destructive fires, and improving wildlife habitats. The forest’s fire management program operates out of four zones—Henry's Fork, South Fork, Portneuf, and Bear River—ensuring rapid response when wildfires do break out. But when fires start in the wrong place or time, often due to unattended campfires or careless actions like fireworks or machinery sparks, the consequences can be severe. That’s where you come in.

Mastering the "Out Cold" Process

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent wildfires is ensuring your campfire is completely extinguished before you leave it. In the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, we emphasize the "out cold" process—a method to guarantee your fire is no longer a threat. Here’s how it works:

1. Let It Burn Down: Allow your campfire to burn down to ash as much as possible. This reduces the amount of unburned fuel that could reignite later.
2. Douse with Water: Pour water over the fire, making sure to soak all embers, logs, and ashes. Don’t skimp—use enough to penetrate deep into the fire pit.
3. Stir and Check: Stir the ashes with a stick or shovel to expose any hidden embers. Add more water as needed, ensuring everything is wet.
4. Feel for Heat: Place your hand close to (but not in) the ashes. If it’s cool to the touch—truly "out cold"—you’re good to go. If you feel any warmth, repeat the process. You should be able to touch the ashes without burning yourself.

This technique is critical because many wildfires in the Caribou-Targhee start from campfires that were thought to be out but weren’t. An unattended ember can smolder for hours, only to flare up when the wind picks up. By mastering "out cold," you’re doing your part to keep the forest safe.

Fire Prevention Tips for Visitors

Beyond the "out cold" process, here are some additional ways to prevent fires while enjoying the Caribou-Targhee National Forest:

• Check Fire Restrictions: Before heading out, contact your local Forest Service office or visit the Caribou-Targhee Alerts & Closures page to see if fire restrictions are in effect. During high-risk periods, campfires may be prohibited outside designated areas.
• Use Existing Fire Rings: When camping, stick to established fire rings rather than creating new ones. This minimizes damage to the landscape and keeps fires contained.
• Keep It Small: Build small campfires only with dead, downed wood. Never cut branches from live trees—it’s harmful to the forest and can get you cited.
• Stay Nearby: Never leave your campfire unattended. Even a small breeze can carry embers into dry grass or leaves.
• No Fireworks Allowed: Fireworks are strictly prohibited on all National Forest lands, including Caribou-Targhee, year-round. Even sparklers can ignite dry vegetation—leave them at home.
• No Incendiary/Tracer Rounds: If you’re shooting in permitted areas, avoid incendiary or tracer ammunition. These rounds can spark fires on impact, especially in dry conditions.
• No Exploding Targets: Avoid using exploding targets, as their detonation can generate sparks and heat capable of igniting dry vegetation in an instant.
• Don’t Idle Over Dry Grass: Avoid leaving cars or trucks running over dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust systems can ignite vegetation—park in cleared areas instead.
• Watch for Chains and Sparks: When towing trailers or using equipment, ensure chains aren’t dragging. Metal scraping on rocks or pavement can create sparks that ignite nearby fuels. Secure chains and inspect equipment before heading out.
• Avoid Risky Activities: During dry seasons, skip activities like smoking outside designated areas or using machinery without spark arrestors.

Why It Matters

The Caribou-Targhee National Forest sees wildfires every year, many sparked by human actions like abandoned campfires, fireworks, or vehicle-related incidents. In 2022, the Sawtell Peak Fire burned 45 acres after a lightning strike, a reminder of how quickly fires can grow when conditions are dry. Human-caused fires—like those from incendiary rounds or dragging chains—are preventable. By following these guidelines, you protect not just the forest but also the communities, wildlife, and cultural resources that depend on it.

Stay Informed

Fire danger varies with weather and fuel conditions. The Caribou-Targhee uses a five-level fire danger scale—Low (Green) to Extreme (Red)—to communicate risk. During "High" or above, wildfires can spread rapidly, and extra caution is needed—especially with activities like shooting or towing. For real-time updates, follow the Caribou-Targhee National Forest Facebook or check InciWeb for incident reports.

Join Us in Prevention

Whether you’re a hiker, camper, shooter, or off-roader, you’re a steward of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. By practicing the "out cold" process and avoiding hazards like fireworks, incendiary rounds, idling vehicles, and dragging chains, you help ensure this stunning landscape thrives for generations to come. Have questions? Reach out to your nearest ranger district. Together, we can keep the forest safe—and wild.