It has been a dry and hot summer across most of Wyoming. As temperatures rise, vegetation begins to dry, creating fuels that can create high fire dangers. To help protect wildlife habitat and other public lands, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department implements fire restrictions on department-managed properties where people camp and recreate. 

Anyone planning a trip to a WHMA or PPA can check a comprehensive listing of fire restrictions on the Game and Fish fire ban webpage. Restrictions are updated automatically as soon as they are set in place. 

Adhering to fire restrictions and safety is one of the ways the public can help prevent forest fires, which can be catastrophic. 

Campfires, stoves and other incendiary camping supplies are permitted on WHMAs as long as there are no restrictions or a fire ban is not in place. Campers must ensure the place they choose to have a fire does not threaten, cause damage or burn any property on the WHMA and must always remain under control. 

Littering and fireworks are not permitted on WHMAs. Campers and day users should review all regulations for WHMAs and PAAs on the Game and Fish website before setting up camp. 

If allowed, campfires need to be attended at all times and be completely extinguished. 

To ensure a campfire is completely extinguished, campers need to have plenty of water on hand. To make sure a fire is out:

• Allow wood to burn completely to ash.
• Pour lots of water on the fire to drown all embers.
• Pour water until the hissing sound stops.
• Scrape sticks and logs to remove any embers.
• Stir the ashes and embers with a shovel until everything is wet and cold to the touch.