Arrival of Monsoon Signals Easing of Fire Restrictions in Southeast Arizona - July 2014

Date: July 10, 2014
Contact: Southwest Fire Restrictions Hotline, 1-877-864-6985

Effective Friday, July 11, the Bureau of Land Management Gila District, all districts of the Coronado National Forest, Saguaro National Park, Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Coronado National Memorial, Chiricahua National Monument, Fort Bowie National Historic Site, Tumacácori National Historical Park, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and the Arizona State Forestry Division will lift all fire restrictions in southeastern Arizona. Due to widespread precipitation across the area, additional rain in the weather forecast, increased relative humidity, and a rise in moisture in live and dead trees, brush, and grass, it has been determined that the likelihood of wildfire has lessened to the degree that the restrictions can be rescinded.  

Visitors are reminded to always practice fire safety. One less spark means one less wildfire.

 

• Before going hiking or camping, check with public land management agencies for fire regulations, restrictions or 

area closures. 

• 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 grass, pine needles, leaves, and other fine fuels. 

Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire. 

• Cigarettes should never be thrown out the window of a vehicle. Always use an ashtray to prevent wildfires. 

• Practice Leave No Trace principles - pack out cigarette butts and burned materials from your camping area. 

• Never park a vehicle over dead grass; the catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation. 

• Maintain vehicle brakes, keep tires properly inflated, and shorten tow chains to prevent sparks. 

• 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 federal lands. 

 

Fire conditions as well as localized closures and restrictions are subject to change. Because tribal, federal, state, and local mandates are different, they may have some differences in their year-round regulations and restriction notices. For a more detailed explanation concerning agency restrictions and fire information, please contact the nearest land management agency office, visit http://wildlandfire.az.gov or call the toll-free Southwest Fire Restrictions Hotline at 1-877-864-6985.