This is the time of year when we begin planning our trips to our favorite outdoor places in Arizona. Whether it is a day trip or a weekend camping trip, it is important you confirm if the area you plan to visit has issued Fire Restrictions. Know before you go, so you can take the right equipment and supplies.
Continued dry conditions and an increase in wildfire activity throughout Arizona have led to the issuance of Fire Restrictions throughout the southern half of the state, predominantly. The primary land management agencies as well as some counties and municipalities have determined that Fire Restrictions would be in the interest of public safety.
The most detrimental fires happen during this time of year before the lightning and monsoons. Most of the time it is preventable human actions that are starting fires under extremely hazardous conditions. Fire restrictions assist in reducing the chances of human caused fires and ensure there are enough firefighting resources to respond quickly to keep fires small.
Why is there variation in Fire Restrictions from area to area? While in general the restrictions are similar, individually each agency or area may have slightly different conditions or facilities. Several factors like how dry it is, how much rain we have received and the long term weather outlook, as well as the amount of fire activity, assist agencies in making the determination of whether or not they should issue restrictions. Once it is determined, evaluations are made as to the locations where campfires or propane stoves may or may not be allowed.
Most Fire Restrictions not only restrict campfires and the use of charcoal grills, they also address and may prohibit smoking outdoors or activities such as welding and chainsaw or equipment use that have the potential to start fires. Many areas allow the use of propane and petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices, and others may only allow them only in developed camping or recreation areas. Some areas may allow a campfire in designated locations where there is little threat of escape, if used properly. An example would be a developed campground where vegetation has been cleared and sites are patrolled regularly by campground hosts. But do not assume you are safe if you are going to a developed area, check and know before you go.
Regardless of the level of restriction, all open flame will be prohibited on Red Flag days within the timeframe announced within the notice. Red Flag days are announced by the National Weather Service on days where high winds and low humidity create conditions where fire behavior would be EXTREME if a fire started. Make sure to check daily for Red Flag Alerts, or when in doubt, if it is dry and windy out, adjust your plans to restrict any activity that may cause a fire. It is important to remember that Fireworks are NOT allowed on Public Lands year-round and many state and local municipalities may have implemented local regulations on the use of fireworks.
A violation of posted restrictions could result in citations, fines, jail time or reimbursement of the entire cost to put out the fire and rehabilitate the fire area.
Agencies & Areas in Restrictions As of May 20, 2011:
In general, to date, the following areas have entered into Fire Restrictions and you should contact each area directly for more detailed information. Most areas currently not under restrictions may enter restrictions later in the summer.
All State Trust Lands in Arizona
Coronado & Tonto National Forests
All National Parks in Arizona
All Fish & Wildlife Service Lands/Refuges
Most BLM Lands with the exception of Kingman Field Office & Arizona
Strip District in NW AZ
Most BIA, Indian Trust and Tribal lands
Where to go for more details & information:
More localized and specific contact and fire restriction information can be found at the sources listed below.
Fire Restrictions Hotline
1-877-864-6985
Public Lands Information Center- Fire Restrictions for Arizona
http://www.publiclands.org/firenews/AZ.php
Arizona Fire Prevention & Information [Fire Restrictions & Red Flag Alerts]
http://wildlandfire.az.gov/
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