Fire danger level remains high along Carson Ranger District heading into weekend
Submitted by editor on Fri, 07/28/2017 - 4:03pm
Fire officials on the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest would like to remind the public that the fire danger level is still high. Human-caused wildfires remain a major concern heading into the upcoming weekend.
“It only takes one spark on dry grass, leaves, branches, or pine needles to start a wildfire,” said Russ Bird, Forest Fire Management Officer.
The Spring Mountains National Recreation Area near Las Vegas and the Santa Rosa Ranger District in northern Nevada, are currently in Stage I Fire Restrictions. These restrictions include:
· All campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires (wood, charcoal, and coal burning) are only allowed in designated campgrounds/areas. Portable cooking stoves utilizing liquefied or bottled fuel sources continue to be allowed on public lands.
· Smoking is only allowed in an enclosed vehicle, building, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is void of all flammable material, including vegetation.
· No welding equipment may be used, including acetylene or open flame torches, except by permit.
Additionally, the Carson Ranger District, which extends along the eastern front of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Nevada and California, has instituted a temporary shooting restriction due to the high number of shooting related fires. Discharging a firearm on the District is prohibited, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state and federal regulations. This restriction will remain in effect until Saturday, Sept. 30 or until conditions change. For more information and a map of the District, visit:
https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/htnf/news-events/?cid=fseprd548271
“Since the temporary shooting restriction went into place, the Forest has had extra U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement patrolling the Carson Ranger District,” said Don Harris, Patrol Captain with Forest Service Law Enforcement & Investigations. “Officers are actively pursuing federal charges against violations of the shooting restriction.”
Forest visitors are also encourage to practice the following vehicle safety tips in order to prevent wildfires. Motorists are responsible for many wildfires that spark along roadways.
Use caution when operating vehicles in close proximity to vegetation. A vehicle’s hot undercarriage can easily start dry grass or brush on fire.
Make sure vehicle is properly maintained, with nothing dragging on the ground.
· Practice safe towing. Dragging chains throw sparks. Use appropriate safety pins and hitch ball to secure chains.
· Maintain proper tire pressure. Driving on exposed wheel rims will throw sparks.
· Brakes worn too thin may cause metal to metal contact, which can cause a spark.
· Carry a fire extinguisher in your vehicle and learn how to use it.
· Never throw cigarette butts out of vehicle windows.
To find out information about active forest fires go here. Go here for information on current fire restrictions and the Forest. You can participate in the conversation at https://twitter.com/HumboldtToiyabe and https://facebook.com/HumboldtToiyabeNF/.
Check back for updates.
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