The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) is implementing campfire restrictions on the Chattahoochee National Forest in response to heightened fire danger caused by dry conditions due to lack of rainfall and low relative humidity.
This restriction will further reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires in the area, a news release says. The campfire restriction is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice. This is a Stage I fire restriction, which prohibits building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire except within a metal fire ring or grill in developed recreation sites. Visitors may continue using commercially available fuel stoves designed for cooking. Fireworks are always prohibited in national forests, regardless of weather or conditions.
“North Georgia is in extreme drought with a lack of significant rainfall,” said Forest Supervisor Judy Toppins. “Conditions are not like they were just a week ago. Conditions are expected to possibly get even worse over the next few weeks.”
Across the South, wildland firefighters and emergency responders are on high alert, battling fires and working to protect communities from the threat of fast-moving wildfires.
Mike Haisten, forest fire staff officer for the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, emphasized the importance of following all burn bans and taking preventative measures around homes.
“Even small fires can quickly spread out of control, especially when conditions are this dry,” said Haisten. “Multiple wildfires have ignited on this national forest in the past few weeks. Every big fire, in the history of big fires, started off as a small one. Now is the time to be careful, and a good opportunity to make your property a little more FIREWISE.”
Residents are urged to clear leaves and debris at least 30-feet away from buildings and to avoid any outdoor burning until conditions improve. Human activity causes an average of 87 percent of wildfires, often from escaped debris burns, unattended campfires and even sparks from vehicles or equipment. Simple precautions can make a significant impact in reducing wildfire risk. Report suspicious activity involving fire in the forest to the Georgia Forestry Commission Arson Hotline 1-800-428-7337.