PROPER WAY TO EXTINQUISH CAMP FIRES:

When you're ready to put out your fire and call it a night, follow these guidelines:

1. Allow the wood to burn completely to ash, if possible

2. Pour lots of water on the fire; drown ALL embers, not just the red ones

3. Pour until hissing sound stops

4. Stir the campfire ashes and embers with a shovel

5. Scrape the sticks and logs to remove any embers

6. Stir and make sure everything is wet and they are cold to the touch

7. If you do not have water, use dirt. Mix enough dirt or sand with the embers. Continue adding and stirring until all material is cool.

Remember: do NOT bury the fire as the fire will continue to smolder and could catch roots on fire that will eventually get to the surface and start a wildfire. For more information visit Smokey Bear.