Dry conditions trigger increased fire restrictions in western Arizona

Effective Friday, June 30, 2017, the Bureau of Land Management’s Colorado River District will increase fire and smoking restrictions on all 5.4 million acres of public lands in western Arizona and southeastern California along the Colorado River.

Beginning June 30, and until rescinded, the following are prohibited:

1. Building maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove including fires in developed campgrounds, improved site or dispersed recreation areas.

2.. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or recreational vehicle.

3. Operating motorized vehicles off designated roads and trails.

4. The following mechanical and industrial acts are prohibited: a. Welding, metal grinding activities or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame. b. Using an explosive and/or explosive device.

5. Kingman Field Office only: Discharging a firearm, including target shooting, except while engaged in a lawful hunt during hunting season pursuant to state, federal or tribal laws and regulations. Fireworks and incendiary devices are prohibited on Arizona public lands year-round.

Violations of these restrictions are punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than 12 months. Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters possessing shut-off devices are allowed. When using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire. Cigarettes should never be thrown out the window of a vehicle. Instead, ashtrays should be used in order to prevent wildfires. Never park a vehicle over dead grass; the catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation. For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico, please call 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://www.firerestrictions.us/