Smokey the Bear

Summer on Minnesota’s North Shore is nothing short of magical—sparkling waters, rugged cliffs, and lush forests beckon adventurers from near and far. But with all that beauty comes a responsibility: practicing fire safety. As warm, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires, it’s essential that visitors do their part to protect this incredible landscape.

Stay Safe This Summer: Fire Safety Tips for Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior

Here are just some ways you can stay safe and support fire prevention on the North Shore. From campfire safety to resources to follow if fire danger comes near. The best way to handle any situation is to be educated and be prepared!

Campfire Safety: Enjoy the Flame Responsibly

A campfire can be the heart of a great camping trip, but it can also be dangerous if not handled properly.

How to Build a Safe Campfire:

  • Ensure conditions are appropriate for a safe campfire by checking local fire danger levels and assessing current conditions. Never have a campfire if the fire danger is level High or above or if there is a “red flag warning”. Never have a campfire in windy conditions, even if fire danger is low.
  • Use designated fire pits when available. Many of our homes already have fire pits, check your homes amenities list to see if your home does. Homes on Lake Superior may permit campfires on the beach. In these instances, you will want to create a fire ring using large rocks in a circle at least 3 feet in diameter.
  • Clear the area around the fire pit or ring of driftwood, leaves, pine needles, and other flammable materials. Place seating and other objects at a safe distance outside the fire pit or ring.
  • Use locally sourced wood, scroll down to learn why!
  • Keep fires small, a manageable flame is easier to control and extinguish.
  • Never leave a fire unattended, even for a moment.

Extinguishing Your Fire Completely:

  • Let the fire burn down to ashes.
  • Douse the embers with water, not just dirt.
  • Stir the ashes with a stick or shovel.
  • Add more water until the ashes are cool to the touch—if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave!

Stay Informed: Check Current Fire Danger Conditions

Smokey Bear

Before you light a fire, it’s crucial to know if it’s safe and legal. Fire restrictions can change daily depending on weather and wildfire activity.

Check current fire danger levels and restrictions:

Red flag warnings indicate extreme fire danger. During these times, avoid any activity that could spark a fire—including smoking outdoors or using camp stoves.

What to Do If There’s a Wildfire Nearby

If you’re on the North Shore and a wildfire is reported in the area:

  • Stay calm and alert. Listen in to WTIP or visit Boreal Community Media and follow official evacuation orders if issued. We here at Cascade Vacation Rentals are local and on the ground and are here to assist you. Visit our Facebook page, where we post emergency updates for in-house guests, or simply give us a call if you are concerned and not sure what to do.

  • Download the Watch Duty App. Watch Duty is a non-profit service powered by hundreds of volunteers who diligently monitor scanners and other official sources 24 hours a day and a great resource for seeing up to date information on fire locations, first size and direction, and evacuation information

  • Avoid the area of an active fire and avoid roads that may be used by emergency vehicles. Stay out of the way and stay safe!

  • Pack a go-kit in advance. These can be your car safety kits as long as they include essentials like water, emergency food, a flashlight, and phone/device chargers. In a true emergency you should be able to evacuate in minutes and leave behind what you cannot grab.

  • Report any signs of unusual smoke or fire to 911 or local authorities – early reporting can save lives.


Help Prevent Wildfires: Buy Firewood Locally

You might not think of it, but the firewood you use for your campfire can contribute to the spread of destructive pests, like the spruce budworm, an insect that kills trees and increases wildfire risk.

high angle bonfire forest. Resolution and high quality beautiful photo

Why Local Wood Matters:

  • Invasive insects and diseases can hide in firewood.

  • Transporting wood from far away spreads these threats to healthy forests.

  • Dead and dying trees create more fuel for wildfires, making them burn hotter and faster.

Firewood Tips:

  • Purchase wood from local vendors. On the North Shore, most of the Circle K (formerly Holiday) gas stations will sell bundles of wood. Roadside wood vendors can be found up and down the North Shore, especially along Highway 61.

  • Use up all your firewood. Or leave it for the next guest. Don’t take any with you. You don’t want to accidentally introduce insects from the North Shore to your local area!

Enjoy the North Shore while Practicing Fire Safety

The North Shore of Lake Superior is a treasure that deserves our protection. By practicing fire safety, staying informed, and making mindful choices like buying local wood, we can all play a role in preventing wildfires and preserving this incredible area for future generations.

Remember: One spark can start a wildfire, but one smart decision can prevent it.