Fire restrictions now in effect on BLM land

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Colorado River District has announced fire restrictions on 5.4 million acres of public lands in western Arizona and southeastern California along the Colorado River.

Citing the protection of the public, natural resources, and reducing the risks of wildfires, fire prevention orders are now being enforced on all public lands within the BLM Yuma, Lake Havasu, and Kingman field office jurisdictions. These restrictions are similar to those being implemented in other areas in Arizona.

The BLM is asking the public to use extreme caution when visiting public lands this summer. Currently there are no plans to close any areas along the Colorado River area to public use. The public is reminded that the Fire Prevention Order prohibits the following acts:

• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or campfire. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices is allowed on public lands provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or recreational vehicle. Smoking is restricted to an enclosed vehicle or recreational vehicle on a paved or improved road, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.
• Using tracer ammunition, explosives, or any incendiary devices (including explosive targets); fireworks are always prohibited on public lands.
• Welding, operating a torch with open flame, or operating a device that discharges sparks, or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.
• Parking (or driving) a motor vehicle, ATV, or UTV off road on or over vegetation. Operating a vehicle off road within designated off highway vehicle areas is permitted.

“Increasing and persistent hot, dry, and windy conditions have decreased public safety on public lands,” said BLM Fire Management Officer Mike Trent. “Fire weather conditions warrant the increase in our fire prevention orders to help protect the public, firefighters, and our natural resources within the Colorado River District.” Trent added, “The restrictions will remain in effect until conditions warrant the raising or lifting of the fire prevention orders.”

Imperial, Cibola, Bill Williams, and Havasu National Wildlife Refuges continue to enforce year round fire restrictions.