LINCOLN, Neb. - As Independence Day nears, Nebraska Game and Parks is preaching fire safety. 

While no campfire bans are in place at Nebraska State Parks or on state wildlife management areas, campers and those on Game and Parks ground should be aware that local entities may have burn restrictions in place. 

Despite recent rains, guests should exercise caution when having a campfire. They should:

  • Keep fires small
  • Keep fires contained in provided fire rings
  • Never leave any open flame unattended
  • Have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of spread; and
  • Ensure fires are fully extinguished before leaving the site.

Visitors also should follow these fire safety practices:

  • Dispose of cigarettes and other flammable objects appropriately
  • Avoid activities that could create sparks
  • Restrict driving to established roads and trails
  • Avoid parking vehicles in tall vegetation
  • Make sure no chains or metal parts or objects are hanging or dragging from your vehicle or towed trailer
  • In the morning, before driving and while the exhaust/catalytic converter system is cool, inspect it to see no debris is clinging to it

Fireworks are allowed only on July 4 at designated areas of Wagon Train, Branched Oak, and Pawnee State Recreation Areas.