PHOENIX - Fire season is under way in Arizona and with Easter occurring April 16 followed by Memorial Day and its customary three-day weekend in late May, visitation is beginning to increase on the Tonto National Forest. Officials offer the following campfire tips to help practice fire safety.

Ø When possible, use an established campfire ring

Ø Clear the area down to bare soil

Ø Build campfires away from overhanging branches, steep slopes, rotten stumps, logs, dry grass, pine needles and leaves

Ø Move extra wood away from the fire

Ø Avoid building a campfire when it’s windy

Ø Do not bury coals; they can smolder and re-ignite later

Ø Drown the fire with water and dirt, stir the remains, and repeat this process until the campfire is cold to the touch

Ø Never leave a campfire unattended

Additional safety information is available online at: https://smokeybear.com/en/prevention-how-tos/campfire-safety.   back...