Outdoor safety for Labor Day Weekend
Prescott National Forest offices closed Monday, Sept. 2

Summer is the time for picnics, barbecues, boating, swimming, camping, hikes – all things relaxing and outdoors. When we least expect it, however, any of these activities can turn dangerous or deadly. Unless, of course, we exercise prior planning and take precautions. (Les Stukenberg/Courier)

Summer is the time for picnics, barbecues, boating, swimming, camping, hikes – all things relaxing and outdoors. When we least expect it, however, any of these activities can turn dangerous or deadly. Unless, of course, we exercise prior planning and take precautions. (Les Stukenberg/Courier)

If you are planning to visit the Prescott National Forest (PNF) over the weekend, forest officials recommend you keep in mind the following:

• Be aware of fire closure areas in the forest, such as for the recent Cellar Fire and ongoing Sheridan Fire: www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/prescott/alerts-notices.

• Check the weather forecast and be prepared for seasonal fluctuations.

• Use good judgment and basic safety precautions when hiking, biking, fishing or camping.

• Campfire safety and prevention is always a priority. Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure it is out cold before leaving the area.

• Note that PNF’s offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2, in observance of Labor Day.

WILDFIRE PRECAUTIONS

Though we are technically in the midst of Arizona’s monsoon season, it has been unseasonably dry this August, leaving brush and other vegetation especially susceptible to wildfire.

“Often times, wildfires are started by sparks from things we take for granted or don’t usually give much attention,” PNF spokesperson Debbie Maneely said.

She said people should note the conditions of the vegetation around them as they do yard work with lawn mowers or trimmers and if they are welding or working on metal objects.

“Look for rocks to cause sparks against your equipment and dry vegetation close to your work area,” Meneely said.

If towing something, people should ensure their safety chains are securely attached to their vehicles and that the chains are of the proper length.

“Many wildfires have been caused by dragging chains behind vehicles,” she said. “In many cases, multiple fires have been started on the edge of a road for miles – often never noticed by the driver.”

For more information about the Prescott National Forest go to its website, www.fs.usda.gov/prescott, or call one of its ranger stations: Bradshaw Ranger District, 928-443-8000; Chino Valley Ranger District 928-777-2200; Verde Ranger District 928-567-4121.

Follow Max Efrein on Twitter @mefrein, email him at mefrein@prescottaz.com or call him at 928-445-3333 ext. 1105.


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