June 30, 2023 3:50 a.m.

Fire Danger is now High on the Umpqua National Forest.

A UNF release said the Industrial Fire Precaution Level will advance to Level 2 on Monday. There are no public use restrictions at this time.

For those working in the forest, IFPL 2 allows for the following only between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.:

*Power saws (except at loading sites)

*Cable Yarding and

*Blasting, welding or cutting of metal

While the IFPL does not apply to those recreating, visitors are encouraged to be cautious with fire while outdoors. On busy weekends, fire officials see a spike in human-caused fires from unattended campfires, fireworks, dragging tow chains, driving on dry grass, and dumping of hot ashes and barbecue coals. Fire prevention tips for those visiting public lands include:

*Leave fireworks at home. Fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited on public land

*Know before going. Check ahead for fire restrictions or closures

*Drown campfires. Make sure fires are “dead out” and cold to the touch before leaving a campsite or going to sleep. Keep campfires small and use a designated campfire ring when available

*Don’t be the spark. Do not drive or park on dry grass. Hot exhaust pipes or sparks can start a fire

*Check chains. When pulling a trailer, be sure safety chains and other metal parts are not hanging from vehicles, as these can drag and cause sparks

*Smoke responsibly. Follow all posted restrictions. Never discard cigarette butts on the ground or in vegetation. Fully extinguish cigarette butts before throwing them away

For updates and restriction information on the Umpqua National Forest, go to: https://www.fs.usda.gov/umpqua