The Office of the State Forester will implement fire & smoking restrictions starting at 6 am on Wednesday, May 14th. The restrictions have become necessary due to developing hot, dry weather along with annual plant growth which contributes to an increasing fire danger. These conditions greatly increase the risk of major wildfires according to Cliff Pearlberg, State Fire Prevention Officer. The restrictions will apply to All State Trust Lands within Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Yavapai, & Yuma counties. The restrictions will remain in effect until July 31st, 2008 or until further notice.
The restrictions are as follows:
• Building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire, or charcoal burning device except as specifically permitted by the State Forester on a case by case basis is prohibited. Petroleum fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are exempt from these restrictions.
• Using fireworks as defined in ARS § 36-1601 is prohibited.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, developed campground, or stopped in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials is prohibited.
• Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame is prohibited.
These restrictions apply to all permits and leases issued by the State Land Department & holders of hunting & fishing licenses. Any state, federal, or local fire or law enforcement officer, or member of an organized firefighting force is exempt from these prohibitions while in the performance of their official firefighting duties.