Summer's heat is already drying out the landscape and lowering the flows in rivers. This time of year calls for extra caution when visiting or camping at Montana State Parks, Fishing Access Sites and on other lands. By taking some simple precautions, you can help prevent wildfires and protect the state’s natural resources.

• Fires should be built only in established fireplaces or fire rings. Fires must be attended at all times and completely extinguished when users leave the area. Water should be poured on black coals and the coals stirred to ensure no sparks or live embers remain.
• Pack in a pick, shovel, axe, bucket, extra water, and other supplies that would be useful in a fire or other emergency.
Camp only in developed campgrounds.
• Park automobiles on improved gravel or dirt surfaces and avoid driving or parking on unimproved roads with high grass growing in the center of the tracks. Catalytic converters on many cars may cause very dry grasses to spark and catch fire.
• Don’t smoke in areas experiencing extreme dryness. Do not throw cigarette butts out the car window, even on improved roads, as this highly dangerous practice can lead to wild fires.
• Plan to pack out your own trash in remote areas, taking special care to remove all potentially flammable materials.
• Follow all FWP regulations and use-restrictions posted to safeguard natural resources.