Fire Restrictions Announced for Bureau of Land Management

To protect the public, natural resources, and reduce the risks of wildfires, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Colorado River District has announced fire restrictions on 5.4 million acres of public lands in western Arizona and southeastern California along the Colorado River.

Effective at 6 a.m. on Friday, April 25, 2014, fire and smoking restrictions will be enforced on all public lands within the BLM Kingman, Lake Havasu, and Yuma Field Office jurisdictions. These restrictions are similar to those being implemented in other areas in Arizona.

The BLM is asking the public to use extreme caution when visiting public lands this summer. Currently there are no plans to close any areas to public use. The public is reminded that the following acts are prohibited until further notice:

Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove. Campfires and charcoal are permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided.

Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, within a developed or improved recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting or gridding implement.

“Due to the drought conditions throughout the State, we have very dry vegetation in the area that will become fuel for wildfires as temperatures continue to rise and humidity falls,” stated Fire Management Officer Michael Trent. “The restrictions will continue until conditions warrant the lifting of the restrictions.”

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.

For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:

Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985

Visit the website: http://www.firerestrictions.us/