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Prevention

All of us can help protect our public lands and our communities from devastating wildfires. In 2020, 90% of all wildfires were caused by humans. As Smokey Bear says, only YOU can prevent wildfires. Learn more about fire prevention and fire safety at home and in the forest below.

Current Fire Restrictions

Public Use Restrictions Industrial Fire Precaution Level  

Call in Smoke Reports

While the Forest has many methods for smoke detection, smoke reports from the public are always appreciated to aid in early detection of fire starts. To best help us, here is some information on calling in a smoke report:

  • Always remember that your safety comes first. If a fire is threatening you, move to a safe location before calling in.
  • Note the location as best you can. Helpful information may include what road you are on, other roads in the vicinity, the closest mile marker, any nearby recreation sites, and the direction of smoke from your position. GPS coordinates are helpful if you have them.
  • Gather as much information as possible. Are flames visible? Is the amount of smoke heavy, moderate, or light? What color is the smoke?
  • Call the report in. On the forest, calls go to our dispatch office - Roseburg Interagency Communications Center which can be reached daily, 6:30 am to 8:00 pm at (541) 957-3325.

Make Sure Campfires are Dead Out

Please do your part to reduce the number of human-caused wildfires, by following Public Use Restrictions. Remember that even fires in constructed fire rings within designated recreation sites, need to be dead out before leaving your campsite. Drown, stir, and feel your campfire with the back of your hand. It should feel cold to the touch before leaving your campsite. 

Fireworks

Fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited on National Forest lands. Some exceptions may occur under a special use permit at the discretion of land managers and in strict accordance with fire prevention regulations.

Vehicle Safety

  • Be sure chains and other metal parts aren't dragging from your vehicle-they throw sparks.
  • Check your tire pressure. Driving on an exposed wheel rim can cause sparks.
  • Be careful driving through or parking on dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust pipes can start the grass on fire. You may not even notice the fire until it’s too late.
  • Never let your brake pads wear too thin; metal on metal makes sparks.

In Your Home

A growing number of people are living where wildfires are a real risk. While these fires will continue to happen, there are things you can do to protect your home and neighborhood as well as your family’s safety. 

Last updated March 28th, 2025

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