Forest Stewards Guild: Celebrate With One Less Spark

Submitted by Carol A. Clark
on June 30, 2023
- 6:13 pm

Forest Stewards Guild News:

SANTA FE — Every New Mexican knows the beginning of July may mark the start of monsoon season.

With monsoons, comes lightning, and not always with rain. As Fourth of July weekend approaches, remember fireworks are illegal on most public lands and always illegal on National Forest Land no matter what day of the year.

Let’s work together to reduce unwanted human-caused fires during this holiday weekend, especially when some natural wildfire starts could be around the corner!

This month’s Wildfire Preparedness Is Year-Round Message: Celebrate with One Less Spark!

Leaving fireworks to the professionals reduces the risk of injury, unintentional wildfire starts, roof damage, and litter.

Consider celebrating with safer, alternative methods:

Glow sticks – safe for all ages;
Noisemakers;
Red, white and blue silly string;
Outdoor movie night with a projector; and
Finding professional fireworks show nearby.

Remember, firefighting professionals are usually busy and stretched thin during Fourth of July week. By limiting unwanted sparks due to fireworks, campfires and BBQs; everyone can do their part to prevent human-caused wildfires this summer.

If fire restrictions are in place, consider using gas-powered camp stoves and firepits. Always be cognizant of your stove and campfire placement. Setting up stoves near tall dead grass during windy days still presents a risk. When using charcoal grills, don’t dump coals in the woods; they may seem out but can re-ignite when hot.

To check for fire restrictions in your area visit: https://nmfireinfo.com/fire-restrictions/

If there are no fire restrictions in place, it does not mean wildfire risk is nonexistent. Recreate responsibly so all can enjoy this year’s Independence Day!

Partners in the 2023 Wildfire Preparedness Campaign are the Forest Stewards Guild, Fire Adapted NM learning network, New Mexico Forestry Division, New Mexico Coalition of Conservation Districts, National Park Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Bureau of Land Management New Mexico, the Santa Fe National Forest and the Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands. Bookmark the wildfire preparedness webpage to continue their wildfire preparedness calendar in 2023 and share the message across multiple platforms, including social media, webinars and community events. Bookmark the wildfire preparedness webpage to follow the campaign throughout the year.