Stage 2 fire restrictions implemented as Coconino National Forest reopens on Tuesday

The Coconino National Forest is scheduled for reopening at 6 a.m., Tuesday. Officials have announced that the national forest will reopen with Stage 2 fire restrictions in place.

The forest was shut down two weeks ago on the account of an increased fire risk caused by dry conditions, with the decision to lift closure coming due to recent rainfall in the area, according to a press release.

Stage 2 fire restrictions that are now implemented prohibit fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, smudge pots, and wooden stoves.  Although, a stove or a grill that is fueled only by pressurized liquid petroleum gas fuels is still permitted.

Furthermore, smoking is prohibited except within the confines of a vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while halted in an area that is at least 3 feet wide in diameter and is barren or cleared of any flammable material.

Operating chainsaws or other equipment that is powered by an internal combustion engine for the purpose of felling, bucking, skidding, processing, road building, and woodcutting during industrial operations or gathering of firewood that is capable of lighting a fire is prohibited between 9 a.m. to 8.p.m.

Blasting, welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame is also restricted during those hours. Explosives and fireworks are always prohibited on all National Forest land.

Fines of up to $5,000, imprisonment up to six months, or both, will be issued to violators, according to the release.

There is still a prevalence of specific closures around active wildfires, the list of which is available online. People are requested to remain vigilant as the probability of fire danger across all forest districts remains high, according to the release.