Fire Restrictions Lifted in Southeastern Arizona

News Summary

Southeastern Arizona has lifted fire restrictions on state and federal lands due to increased fuel moisture levels from recent rainfall. This change affects Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Pima, Pinal, and Santa Cruz counties. While outdoor activities like hiking and camping are now encouraged, visitors must adhere to fire safety guidelines to ensure safety. Certain prohibitions, such as target shooting and fireworks on State Trust lands, remain in place. As conditions evolve, it’s crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to stay informed about current fire regulations.

Southeastern Arizona has lifted fire restrictions on state and federal lands, effective immediately as of Monday. The decision was prompted by widespread precipitation in the region, as well as additional rain forecasts that have increased fuel moisture levels, according to the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

The areas impacted by this change include Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Pima, Pinal, and Santa Cruz counties. With the lifting of these restrictions, outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to enjoy activities such as hiking and camping, while remaining aware of the importance of fire safety regulations.

Current Guidelines for Outdoor Activities

Despite the lifting of fire restrictions in the aforementioned counties, visitors are urged to check with public land management agencies regarding current fire regulations and any area closures before heading out. Adhering to recommended fire safety guidelines is crucial during this time. Some of these guidelines include:

• Utilizing metal fire rings or grills when available.
• Limiting the size of the wood used in a fire to the size of the grill or fire ring.
• Ensuring the ground is clear of flammable materials before building a fire.
• Avoiding fire building on windy days.
• Completely extinguishing campfires before leaving by dousing them with water and stirring until cold to the touch.
• Keeping the area clear around portable stoves and placing them on level surfaces.
• Not throwing cigarettes out of vehicle windows; always using an ashtray instead.
• Following “Leave No Trace” principles and not leaving behind cigarette butts or similarly hazardous materials.
• Avoiding parking vehicles over dry grass to prevent potential ignition from catalytic converters.
• Practicing caution when discharging firearms, operating engines, welding, or using open flames where permitted.

Prohibitions and Ongoing Restrictions

In addition to the recommendations for safe outdoor practices, visitors should also be aware of certain prohibitions still in effect. Target shooting and fireworks are strictly prohibited on State Trust lands. Furthermore, while fire restrictions have been lifted in southeastern counties, Stage 2 restrictions remain in place across the rest of Arizona. The only exception is Coconino County, which is currently under Stage 1 restrictions.

Fire Conditions and Evolving Regulations

As the weather patterns continue to evolve, fire conditions and restrictions may change. It is essential for visitors to stay informed about different mandates that apply across various jurisdictions, including tribal, federal, state, and local areas. Checking in with relevant authorities before undertaking outdoor activities remains a vital step for ensuring safety in these diverse ecosystems.

As the summer months approach and more people venture outdoors, it is crucial to maintain awareness of fire risk factors and adhere to fire safety guidelines. With the temporary lift on fire restrictions in Southeastern Arizona, residents and visitors alike can responsibly engage with the natural beauty of the region while prioritizing safety.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• KVOA: Southeastern Arizona Fire Restrictions Lifted
• Wikipedia: Fire Safety
• Gila Herald: Easing of Fire Restrictions
• Google Search: Fire Restrictions Arizona
• KTAR: Southeast Fire Restrictions
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildfire
• My Herald Review: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions
• Google News: Southern Arizona Fire Restrictions