Cooler temperatures and recent rainfall have prompted the Coos Forest Protective Association to lower public use restrictions. Effective today (October 19) at 12:00 p.m., CFPA will suspend its Regulated Use Closure on all lands protected by the Association. The change now allows certain public activities in wildland areas. CFPA fire managers, however, caution against being careless with fire in the fall. This time of year, several days of sunshine and dry weather can create a fire risk even if a week or more of rainy, cool conditions precedes them. Unattended campfires, a primary cause of wildfires, still have the potential of escaping. When camping, build campfires in clear areas away from overhanging branches and steep slopes. Campfires need to be fully extinguished before leaving the scene. To do so, completely drown the fire with a bucket of water and stir the ashes with a shovel. Make sure all embers are soaking wet and cold to the touch. Finally, seek landowner permission before building any campfire on private land. Outdoor debris burning is still prohibited. For up-to-date public and industrial restrictions information, call the CFPA’s closure information line at (541) 267-1789 or visit CFPA’s website at www.coosfpa.net.