The first rains of fall and cooler temperatures have reduced fire dangers in northwest California, and the Bureau of Land Management has lifted fire restrictions on public lands.

Campfires can again be used outside of developed campgrounds. Fire permits are required in these areas. Restrictions on smoking and use of internal combustion engines off of roads and trails are also lifted.

Restrictions had been in place since mid-summer on BLM-managed lands managed by the Arcata and Redding field offices in Humboldt, Mendocino, Del Norte, Trinity, Siskiyou, Shasta, Butte and Tehama counties.

Even with reduced fire dangers, officials urge outdoor enthusiasts and homeowners to be careful with fire.

Campers must fully extinguish campfires when leaving camp, and burning should not be conducted on windy days. Wood cutters must have spark arresters on their chainsaws, and they should carry tools including shovels and fire