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Contact: Shannan Marcak, 928-638-7958
Grand Canyon, Ariz. – Continued hot and dry weather combined with consistent windy conditions is quickly drying out fuels at Grand Canyon National Park. The park is currently at “Very High” fire danger; and based on predicted weather forecasts, conditions are trending toward “Extreme” fire danger in the very near future. As a result, the Superintendent is implementing the first stages of fire restrictions in the park. Beginning on Thursday, June 30, wood fires of any kind will no longer be permitted within the boundaries of the park. This restriction includes developed campgrounds and residential areas and will remain in place until the onset of monsoonal rains decreases the immediate fire danger. Park visitors and residents are reminded that wildfires can start from a single spark and that under the current conditions, any fire has the potential to grow by tens of thousands of acres in a single day, quickly putting life and property at risk. Please use extreme caution when engaging in activities that might provide an ignition source. Examples of these types of activities include but are not limited to using a charcoal or gas grill, using a chain saw or smoking. Taking extra precautions can make the difference between a safe and enjoyable summer and exposure to the hazardous conditions caused by wildfire. Some precautions to consider: ensure that chains and other metal objects on a moving vehicle are secured safely above the pavement where they cannot cause sparks; smoke only within private vehicles or designated smoking areas where an ashtray is available, and never toss a cigarette butt on the ground; and make sure chainsaws are equipped with a functioning spark arrestor, other heavy equipment is in good working order and all of these items are used only during the coolest hours of the day. With the Fourth of July weekend quickly approaching, visitors and residents are also reminded that fireworks are never permitted in Grand Canyon National Park. For more on these restrictions, please call Public Affairs Specialist Shannan Marcak at 928-638-7958. To learn more about fire management in Grand Canyon National Park, please visit the park’s web site at https://www.nps.gov/grca/parkmgmt/firemanagement.htm. -NPS- |
Last updated: February 24, 2015