GAINESVILLE, Ga. — The U.S. Forest Service has issued campfire restrictions across the Chattahoochee National Forest due to heightened wildfire risk driven by dry conditions, low humidity, and a lack of rainfall.
The restrictions took effect April 17 and will remain in place until further notice.
The order is a Stage I fire restriction. It prohibits building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire outside of designated metal fire rings or grills in developed recreation areas. The restriction applies to all three ranger districts in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Visitors may still use commercially available fuel stoves designed for cooking. Fireworks remain prohibited at all times in national forests.
“North Georgia is in extreme drought with a lack of significant rainfall,” said Forest Supervisor Judy Toppins. “Conditions are not like they were just a week ago. Conditions are expected to possibly get even worse over the next few weeks.”
Officials say firefighters have been working to contain recent blazes before they grow out of control. Across the South, wildfire crews remain on high alert as dry conditions continue to increase fire risk.
Mike Haisten, forest fire staff officer for the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, urged the public to follow restrictions and take precautions.
“Even small fires can quickly spread out of control, especially when conditions are this dry,” Haisten said. “Multiple wildfires have ignited on this national forest in the past few weeks. Every big fire, in the history of big fires, started off as a small one. Now is the time to be careful, and a good opportunity to make your property a little more FIREWISE.”
Residents are encouraged to clear leaves and debris at least 30 feet from buildings and avoid outdoor burning until conditions improve.
Officials note that human activity causes an average of 87 percent of wildfires, often from escaped debris burns, unattended campfires, or sparks from vehicles and equipment. Authorities urge anyone who sees suspicious fire activity to report it to the Georgia Forestry Commission Arson Hotline at 1-800-428-7337.
More information on wildfire prevention is available at SmokeyBear.com. Homeowners can also learn about Firewise and ways to protect their property through the Georgia Forestry Commission at gatrees.org/fire-prevention-suppression/firewise-usa-program.
