BLM lifts fire restrictions

The federal Bureau of Land Management has lifted all fire restrictions for the public lands it administers in the Parker area.

Due to widespread precipitation across the area, additional rain in the weather forecast, and a rise in fuel moistures, BLM has determined that the likelihood of wildfire has lessened to the degree that the restrictions can be rescinded.

The agency issued the following guidelines for helping keep public lands safe:

• Cigarettes should never be thrown out the window of a vehicle. Instead, ashtrays should be used in order to prevent wildfires.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out cigarette butts and burned materials.
• Never park a vehicle over dead grass; the catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation.
• Use caution while discharging a firearm, operating an internal combustion engine, welding, or operating acetylene or other torches with an open flame, or using explosives (where permitted).
• Fireworks are always prohibited on state and Federal lands.
• Metal fire rings or grills should be used where present. Wood placed on a fire should never exceed the size of the grill or fire ring.
• If building a fire on the ground (in areas where permitted), a location should be selected which is away from adjoining or overhanging flammable material, and the ground beneath and around the fire should be cleared of all flammable materials. On windy days fires should be avoided if possible.
• If you have a campfire, make sure it is fully extinguished before leaving the area. Fires should be doused with water and dirt and stirred with a shovel until completely cold to the touch.
• If you are using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire.

The changes affect the Phoenix and Colorado River districts.