Stage one fire restrictions take effect in Eagle County
Stage one fire restrictions have been in effect in the Eagle County community since early Wednesday morning. The course of action came after the sheriff consulted with local, state and federal fire experts on the current conditions.
Driving the decision are environmental factors such as vegetation measurements showing low moisture and “less favorable weather,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement released Tuesday morning.
The released statement from the sheriff’s office listed a number of activities that are now put on pause: fires of any type outside of developed areas, smoking unless in permitted spots, explosive materials, welding except in an area cleared of vegetation, operating any internal combustion engine without a spark-arresting device and the use personal fireworks — all are prohibited under further notice.
For those eager for some recreational use, according to the statement, some fires are permitted.
Campfires within designated fire grates in developed campgrounds are acceptable, and liquid or gas stoves, as well as outdoor fireplaces with shut-off valves, are allowed; however, they must be at least 15 feet away from combustibles. Outdoor recreational shooting is permitted only in pre-approved designated areas.
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“We want to remind our community, as well as visitors to the area, that you are our first line of defense in preventing wildland fires,” the statement said. “With the start of summer, we understand the excitement — but with heightened fire danger, it’s more important than ever to recreate safely.”
For more information, visit the Eagle County Sheriff’s Office website.
