The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges everyone to help prevent wildland fires throughout the summer. While the weather remains on the cool side, the extended holiday weekend brings a higher-than-average number of visitors to the forests, raising wildfire concerns .

Help prevent wildfires by clearing debris around campfire pits and using a shovel and water to completely extinguish your campfire. Everyone is urged to be cautious and only build campfires in approved pits, where allowed. Firefighters have responded to 51 wildland fires so far this year.

“We want everyone to enjoy their Memorial Day weekend, while being safe and taking simple steps to prevent an accidental wildfire,” said Peter Goldmark, the Commissioner of Public Lands. “An escaped campfire can threaten lives, property, and drain scarce tax dollars.”

Before leaving home, always check to find out what the campfire restrictions are for the area you plan to visit.

If campfires are allowed; extinguish it properly before leaving:

Never leave a campfire unattended at anytime.

Drown fire thoroughly with water.

Stir until cold.

Drown fire again and stir.

Never leave a campfire until it is completely out and cool to the touch.

For those people remaining at home, this is a good time to help reduce wildland fire hazards around the home and property by clearing excess debris, creating defensible space around the home, and following Firewise practices. For information about protecting homes and property from wildfire, visit www.firewise.org.

Also, a Discover Pass is required to access state lands managed by DNR, Washington State Parks, and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. For more information visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov.