Dry, windy and warm conditions in the Foothills have forced the County to restrict fireworks and controlled burns in the area.
As of Aug.4, the County is asking citizens to use extra caution when burning, though this is not an outright ban on fires.
It is recommended to soak areas adjacent to fire pits and barrels with water prior to burning.
Fireworks, torches and lanterns with an open flame are not permitted under this restriction, as are Class 1 and 2 fires that require a permit. Class 1 fires are less than 10' by 10' by 5' in perimeter and Class 2 are any burns larger than that.
Still allowed under the restriction are residential fire pits and campfires in campgrounds 36 inches in diameter or less, gas or propane stoves and barbecues, charcoal and solid fuel barbecues, household fireplaces, wood pellet smokers, incinerators for farm and acreage use and steel drum burning barrels no larger than 45 gallons with screen covers on a non-combustible surface.
Fire Chief Rick Saulnier warns that if conditions in the County continue to change, a fire ban can be imposed at any time. The risk can also be downgraded to an advisory. If a ban is imposed, all fires must immediately be fully extinguished.
