Fire Safety and Community Responsibility in the Garden of the Gods Park

Wildfires are an ever-present threat in Colorado, particularly during the hot summer months. This season alone we’ve witnessed numerous fires across the state, showing the persistent threat we all face, and one that we can all play a role in mitigating. According to the National Parks Service, nearly 85 percent of wildland fires in the United States are caused by humans. Human-caused fires result from anything from campfires being left unattended, burning debris, and equipment use and malfunctions, to discarded cigarettes and intentional acts of arson. This statistic emphasizes that fire safety and prevention are responsibilities we all share as a community to practice fire safety and mitigation as we enjoy the Great Outdoors.

A recent incident in the Garden of the Gods Park underscores this point and brought to light another human-caused fire risk: sky lanterns. Burnt remains of a sky lantern were discovered in the park last week, serving as a reminder of the critical need for vigilance and public education during wildfire season. Sky lanterns, which use an open flame to become airborne, are particularly hazardous. They can drift over a mile before landing, posing severe risks of igniting wildfires in both parks and surrounding areas.

Sky lanterns are an example of irresponsible fire safety behavior. The danger of sending an open flame into the air without control over where it might land cannot be overstated. However, other less obvious behaviors can also contribute to fire risks. These include parking hot vehicles on dry grass, assuming a campfire is extinguished because it’s no longer smoking, allowing flammable materials to drag behind a vehicle and even smoking in areas where there is ample dry brush that can catch. Smoking is prohibited in Garden of the Gods Park and on the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center ‘s property for this reason.

The Colorado Springs Fire Department has been vocal on social media about the dangers associated with sky lanterns and other fire risks. In a recent update, they highlighted that despite some recent moisture, Colorado remains dry, and the risk of fire persists. “Just because we’ve had some moisture does not mean we’re off the hook,” CSFD emphasized. They also reminded us that sky lanterns are strictly prohibited within the City of Colorado Springs. Violators may face fines, jail time, and/or probation under the city’s fire code.

To ensure the safety of our community and natural spaces, it’s crucial to report any suspicious or risky behavior to local law enforcement and implement fire safety practices in your own lives. Each of us plays a role in preventing wildfires and protecting our environment, and by adhering to fire safety guidelines and remaining vigilant, we can all contribute to the preservation of Colorado’s beautiful landscapes.

Another great way you can contribute to the efforts to protect and preserve The Garden of the Gods Park is by joining the Gateway Guardians! This exciting new opportunity gives members the ability to show support and deepen their involvement with the Garden of the Gods Park and the Garden of the Gods Foundation, while also enjoying access to an exclusive range of benefits. Learn more about this program here!

And for more information on wildfire prevention and to stay updated on fire activity, visit the National Park Service, Colorado Wildfire Tracker, and Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control.

Additional Sources:

https://denvergazette.com/outtherecolorado/news/disastrous-outcome-avoided-as-serious-fire-hazard-found-at-iconic-colorado-park/article_0bc6a29c-54d6-11ef-b961-b373ada34f17.html https://www.fox21news.com/news/local/burned-lantern-found-in-garden-of-the-gods-park/#:~:text=(COLORADO%20SPRINGS)%20%E2%80%94%20The%20Colorado,Garden%20of%20the%20Gods%20Park.