For Release: April 30, 2007
Contact: Lori Cook - 928-317-3243, cell - 928-246-8560
Fire Restrictions Announced for Colorado River Area
Yuma, Ariz. - Hoping to prevent 2007 from becoming a devastating fire season, fire restrictions on 2.5 million acres of public lands along both the Arizona and California sides of the Colorado River have been announced by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
Effective today, April 30, through October 31, 2007, fire and smoking restrictions will be enforced on all public lands within the BLM’s Yuma and Lake Havasu Field Office jurisdictions. The effective dates are subject to extension or withdrawal based on the severity rating.
“The restrictions are the result of the extreme potential for wildfire within the region,” states Acting Fire Manager Officer Chris Delaney.
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 along the Colorado River area to public use. The public is reminded, however, that the following acts are prohibited:
- Building or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, or wood stove. Charcoal is allowed in designated developed or improved recreation sites with the use of a commercially manufactured grill or grill that is provided on site. Propane stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are allowed provided they are placed at least 10 feet from any surrounding vegetation.
- Smoking. Except within an enclosed vehicle or building, in a developed or improved recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 10 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
- Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.
Violations of these restrictions are punishable by a fine of not more than $100,000 and/or imprisonment for not more than 12 months.
For fire restriction information throughout Arizona and New Mexico, please call 1-877-864-6985 or visit www.azfireinfo.com.
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