Fire restrictions in effect on Tonto National Forest

Target shooting is prohibited while fire restrictions are in place, fireworks and explosives are prohibited year-round

PHOENIX – Hot temperatures and increased fire danger have prompted fire officials to implement fire restrictions for the Tonto National Forest.

Most types of fire or fire-causing activities are prohibited across the entire Tonto National Forest.

Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or charcoal-burning device is prohibited outside of metal fire rings and metal pedestal grills provided by the Forest Service in developed recreation sites (see attached list).  The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, and heating devices are allowed.

Restrictions also apply to operating internal combustion power tools, using welding equipment or torches with open flames, operating combustion engines without spark-arresting devices in effective working order and meeting either USDA or SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standards.

Discharging a firearm is prohibited, except for taking game in accordance with Arizona hunting laws.

Smoking is prohibited except within an enclosed vehicle or building, or a developed recreation site.  Please deposit the remains in an ashtray or inside a building.  Do not toss or discard on the ground.

“Temperatures have reached 115 degrees, drying out grasses and leaves, raising the fire danger” said Tonto National Forest Fire Staff Don Nunley.  “These precautionary measures will help prevent human-caused wildfires, decreasing unnecessary exposure to firefighters.”

“We are reminding the public that fireworks and the use of exploding targets are always prohibited on the Forest,” emphasized Nunley.

Violation of these fire restrictions is punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.

For more information regarding forest recreation sites and fire restrictions on the Tonto National Forest, contact the Tonto National Forest at (602) 225-5200, or online at www.fs.usda.gov/tonto.

For information on current fires burning in Arizona visit Inciweb, and visit the Arizona Fire Restrictions website to view all fire restrictions in Arizona.

Campfires are allowed in metal fire rings and metal pedestal grills provided by the Forest Service in developed recreation sites. For a complete list visit http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tonto/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD504864.