Several counties across Northwest Colorado, including Larimer County, have been put on a stage one fire restriction due to dry conditions that have resulted in high fire danger.

According to a news release from the Bureau of Land Management, Larimer, Grand, Jackson, Eagle, Summit, Moffat and Rio Blanco counties, along with lands in Kremmling, White River and Little Snake field offices have been placed under these restrictions by the Bureau.

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Stage one fire restrictions were first imposed on Wednesday (June 16). These restrictions now combine with other restrictions beginning this week in northwest Colorado National Forests, including Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest and portions of the Arapaho National Forest.

Recent hot and windy conditions across northwest Colorado have reportedly dried out fuels,  while thunderstorms rolling through the area have brought lightning with virtually no moisture -  which led to these fire restrictions.

Stage one fire restrictions, as per the Loveland Reporter-Herald via the Bureau of Land Management include:

  • No fires of any type, including charcoal, but stoves fueled by liquid petroleum or gas are allowed.
  • No smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building or in a barren area free of vegetation.
  • No operating a chainsaw without a USDA or SAE approved spark arrester properly installed, a working chemical fire extinguisher, and a round point shovel.
  • No use of explosive materials, including explosive targets.
  • No welding or operation of an acetylene or other similar torch with open flame.
  • No operation of any internal combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed and in working order.

Under these restrictions, campfires will only be permitted in developed recreation sites like formal campgrounds or picnic areas where permanent fire grates are installed, according to the release.

For more information regarding fire restrictions, visit blm.gov.

Photo Gallery: 2012 High Park Fire

 

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