(PUEBLO, Colo.) — The U.S. Forest Service reported that as of Friday, July 12, 139 abandoned or unattended campfires were reported to the Pueblo Interagency Dispatch Center, and urged the public to practice campfire safety precautions when visiting national forests and grasslands.

Abandoned campfires are one of the leading causes of catastrophic wildfires, including the Interlaken Fire in Leadville, which burned over 700 acres. Violations of fire-related restrictions can lead to a penalty of up to $5,000 or six months in prison, and if an abandoned campfire causes a wildfire, violators can be held responsible for fire suppression costs.

“Know before you go. Check for red flag warnings and fire restrictions before considering a campfire,” said Pike-San Isabel & Cimarron and Comanche Fire Prevention Specialist, Vidalia Vigil. “Be campfire aware. Make sure the campfire site is not near your tent, flammables, or other belongings. Always completely extinguish a fire before you leave, even if you plan to come back, and make sure your fire is out before you go to bed.”

To ensure campfire safety, clear vegetation away from the campfire area and use a pre-existing campfire ring to build the fire, when possible. Before lighting a campfire, ensure the proper tools are available to extinguish it, including a bucket, plenty of extra water, and a shovel. To completely extinguish the fire, drown the fire with water, stir with the shovel, drown again, and feel for any heat. Continue this process until no heat remains.

If anyone comes across an abandoned campfire, the Forest Service asks that they try to extinguish the fire, and if lacking tools, call the local non-emergency number or the forest or grassland district office to report it.