NORTHERN CALIFORNIA — Celebrating July 4 outdoors is a time-honored tradition throughout the United States.

With the increased visitor use and excessive heat warnings, forest officials share a few reminders on being safe and firewise.

Fireworks and pyrotechnics are prohibited on public lands — every forest, every campsite, every day.

More than 90% of all fires are human caused. Together, Californians can prepare and prevent wildfires with just a bit of planning.

Campfire permits are required for the use of campfires, charcoal fires or portable gas stoves. Permits are available online at www.readyforwildfire.org.

Visitors can follow these steps to stay safe this weekend:

• Campfires: Clear all flammable material away from the fire for a minimum of five feet in all directions. Make sure you have a shovel and sufficient water to put out the campfire. Attend the fire at all times and never build a campfire on a windy day. Ensure your fire is completely extinguished: drown with water, stir with your shovel, drown again, and feel for any heat using the back of your hand.

• Camp stoves: If using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other debris that may catch fire. Prevent stoves from tipping.
Vehicles: Stick to designated trails and be careful of parking or driving your car or ATV in tall, dry, vegetation, including grass. When towing, ensure your safety chains are properly connected with any type of trailer. The hot underside of the vehicle and dragging chains can start a fire.

• Flammable items: The use of any fireworks, explosives or internal or external combustion engine without a spark arrestor is prohibited on the forest. Always use caution with smoking. Extinguish all smoking materials dead out on bare soil. Pack out all cigarette butts and filters.

• High temperatures: Temperatures will reach the triple digits this weekend for several days. Stay hydrated and carry plenty of extra water. Avoid being outside during the heat of the day if possible, and make sure you know the signs and symptoms of heat stress. Check the weather forecast before you travel to your destination.

“Public lands, like California’s 18 national forests, see some of our highest numbers around July 4 celebrations. So it’s a great time to remind everyone to leave the fireworks displays to your city and local groups,” said Jim Bacon, director of Public Services for the Pacific Southwest Region. “Plus, remember to take extra caution this high-water year. Plan ahead, so everyone enjoys a safe, holiday weekend.”

To ensure a fun and safe weekend, visit the Mendocino National Forest website for important alerts on road conditions, campgrounds and trails. Remember, the strong storms and heavy snow from winter and spring have had a significant impact on recreation access.

Recent snowmelt has raised water levels considerably and associated risks remain higher than normal.

Trails, bridges, and roads may be impassable at any time. Have backup destinations and plan for alternate routes in case an area is inaccessible.