HikeArizona.COM

Officials with the Coconino, Kaibab, and Prescott National Forests will implement fire restrictions on Wednesday, June 23 across the three forests. Due to high fire danger, these restrictions are deemed necessary to protect public health and safety and prevent human-caused wildfires.

The restrictions will prohibit fires, campfires, charcoal, coal or wood stoves outside of developed campgrounds and limit smoking to within enclosed vehicles or buildings or in developed campgrounds. Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns, and heaters meeting safety specifications will continue to be allowed.

In addition, campfires are not allowed at the designated dispersed camp sites within the Prescott Basin on the Prescott National Forest. Metal posts identify designated dispersed sites with a number.

Please remember the following campfire safety:

* Make a fire only if you have a shovel and sufficient water to put it out. Never leave your campfire unattended.
* Avoid making a campfire during the windy part of the day. Winds usually diminish at night when a campfire is welcome. Keep your campfire as small as practical.
* To make sure your campfire is out, drown with water and stir with dirt, making sure all burned materials are extinguished. Feel with your hand to make sure it’s out cold.

The fire restrictions will remain in place until the Forests receive significant precipitation. Violation of the prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, imprisonment for not more than six months, or both. Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest land.

For additional information on fire restrictions on the Coconino National Forest, please call (928) 527-3600, on the Kaibab, call (928)-635-8311 and on the Prescott, call 928-777-5799 or (928) 443-8000. For additional information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/.