MISSOULA, Mont. — The Montana Department of Natural Resources Missoula and Clearwater extinguished three human-caused wildfires.

The fires ranged from 0.1 to 1.15 acres, and authorities suspect they were caused by abandoned fires.

Even though temperatures are cooling, forests remain dry and new fires are still possible.

Before leaving the campfire, officials urge the public to smother, stir, and feel until the fires are no longer hot to the touch.

The Montana Department of Natural Resources sent the following:

Despite falling temperatures, firefighters with the DNRC Missoula and Clearwater Units recently responded to three wildfires ranging in size from 0.1 to 1.15 acres that were suspected to have been caused by abandoned warming fires. Fire officials are urging hunters and recreationists to exercise caution as fire season continues. All fires were brought under control.

There have been 171 wildfires in Missoula and Powell counties so far this year. Approximately 70% of these are human-caused; Recreational fires, burning debris, operating vehicles or equipment, and power lines are among the top causes.

“Although we have entered the fall season, our forests are extremely dry. So dry that even the small rain and snow storms we receive are not enough to bring the needed moisture back to our forests,” said Joe Rediske of the DNRC Missoula Unit. Deputy Fire Management Officer. “Please be extremely careful with your warming fires and extinguish them completely before leaving. If the fire is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.”

Recreators also need to know where to build a fire, especially if they use the shade of a large tree. Dry fuels protected from precipitation can easily ignite. One less spark means fewer forest fires! For more information on campfire safety tips, visit www.MTFireInfo.org.