Fire ban in effect

Up to $5,000 fine or imprisonment for individuals

The Sierra Madre Range and Snowy Range within the Medicine Bow National Forest have both entered Stage 1 fire restrictions effective July 5 according to a press release from the United States Forest Service (USFS). The USFS coordinated with both Albany and Carbon Counties on the timing of the restrictions which comes due to “a continued forecast of dry, warm weather conditions and potential for wildfire.”

The press release went on to state that the restrictions include the area surrounding the ongoing Badger Creek Fire outside of Laramie, but excludes the Laramie Peak and Pole Mountain units. These restrictions, according to the USFS, are necessary to not only protect public health and safety, but natural resources as well.

Until further notice, the following prohibitions are in effect:

• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or stove fire. This includes barbecues, grills and portable braziers. The exception, however, is for fires in constructed permanent fire pits or fire grates within developed recreation sites and the use of portable stoves, lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum, pressurized liquid fuel or a fully enclosed (sheepherder type) stove with a ¼” spark arrester type screen.

• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

• Operating a chainsaw without a USDA or SAE approved spark arrester properly installed and in effective working order, a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 2A kept with the operator and one round point shovel with an overall length of at least 35 inches readily available for use.

• Welding or operating acetylene or other touch with open flame except in cleared areas of at least 10 feet in diameter and in possession of a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of at least 2A.

• Using an explosive.

Violation of these regulations is punishable as a class B misdemeanor, by a fine of not more than $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment of not more than six months or both. Anyone negligently or willfully starting a wildland fire could also be held responsible for the costs of that fire.

For more information, contact the Brush Creek/Hayden Ranger District at 307-326-5258 or visiting at 2171 Highway 130 in Saratoga.

 

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