SILVER CITY, NM, November 7, 2022 – Gila National Forest reminds visitors to be careful with fire by extinguishing all campfires when they are not attended. Conditions are dryer than normal, and with precipitation in October falling well below average, fire danger conditions are edging back up to “high” across most of the Gila. 

“This year, the Gila has experienced fewer human-caused wildfires than in most years, and we would like to maintain that trend,” said Gila National Forest Supervisor Camille Howes. “Please be sure to extinguish your campfire when it is not attended, so that your campfire doesn’t become our next wildfire.”

Extinguished means cold to the touch with your bare hand – if your fire is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave even for a few minutes. We hope you enjoy your visit and remember to always practice these fire safety rules:

Clear all flammable material away from the fire for a minimum of five feet in all directions.Make a fire only if you have a shovel and sufficient water to put it out.Never leave your campfire unattended.Do not make a campfire in windy conditions.Drown your campfire with water, stir with dirt making sure all burned materials are extinguished. Feel it with your hand to make sure it’s out cold.Every campfire will be put DEAD OUT before leaving it. 

For more information on the Gila National Forest, visit our website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/gila .