JACKSON, Wyo. — The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) is reminding people to adhere to fire and drone safety this Labor Day weekend.
“Whether you’re camping, towing a boat or grilling in the backyard, please remember that most wildfires are human-caused and preventable,” NIFC wrote via Facebook.
According to the NIFC, so far in 2025, 46,323 wildfires have burned more than 4.1 million acres in the U.S. Approximately 18,300 wildland firefighters and support personnel have been assigned to wildfires across the nation.
In Wyoming, firefighting crews have responded to multiple wildfires, including Willow Creek Fire, Dollar Lake Fire, Red Canyon Fire, Spring Creek Fire and Sleeper Ranch Fire.
The NIFC wrote that simple choices can help protect the landscape, support firefighters and keep communities safer.
- Campfires must be dead out.
- Trailer chains need to be secure so they don’t spark.
- Grills and burn piles cannot be left unattended.
The NIFC also reminds people that unauthorized drones continue to put lives and fire suppression efforts at risk.
So far this year, 32 drone incursions have been reported near active wildfires nationwide, which is an increase from 21 at this time last year. The NIFC wrote that when drones are spotted, aircraft are grounded until it is safe to fly again. Delays for aircraft can affect how quickly ground crews receive support, especially during fast-moving fires.
“Most people flying drones near wildfires likely don’t realize the consequences,” the NIFC said via Facebook. “But even one incursion can disrupt aerial firefighting operations.”
Drone flights over wildfires are illegal, dangerous and can stall critical air operations, per the NIFC.
“Let’s help keep the skies clear and protect the people working to protect us all,” the NIFC said.
