The fire restrictions, which covered the entire forest, are no longer needed because fire danger has been reduced by increased moisture and humidity from the annual monsoon weather. These wetter conditions prompted officials to lift the forest fire restrictions which have been in place since May 11.
“Although campfires and cooking fires will now be allowed throughout the forest, we ask visitors to remain cautious and properly extinguish their fires. Campfires have to be cold enough to touch before they are left,” said Deputy Fire Staff Helen Graham. “Campfires should be put out by drowning with water and stirring the ashes with first a shovel, then bare hands, to ensure the fire is cold -- and dead out.”
Acting Forest Supervisor Tom Klabunde acknowledged the cooperation of the visiting public during the period of fire restrictions which began two months ago.
“We appreciate the public’s support during these fire restrictions,” Klabunde said. “We thank everyone for their patience and understanding while access and activities on the Tonto were restricted during this wildfire season. We appreciate our visitors’ patience and support of the restrictions.”
For more information regarding forest recreation sites and fire restrictions, please contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200, or check online at www.fs.usda.gov/Tonto
Fire Restriction Information: Toll free 1 (877) 864-6985. To report a wildfire, call 1-866-746-6516 or dial 911.
No comments:
Post a Comment