BLM lifts fire restrictions

Those heading out to Bureau of Land Management campsites or day use areas near Yuma to recreate can once more enjoy s'mores and other campfire treats now that BLM has lifted fire restrictions in effect since May 18.

The fire restrictions have been lifted on all public lands administered by the Lake Havasu and Yuma field offices, including areas in the Yuma, La Paz and Mohave counties in Arizona as well as Imperial, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties in California.

“The BLM greatly appreciates the public's cooperation in helping to minimize the number of human-caused wildfires this summer on BLM lands,” said Roxie Trost, BLM Colorado River District manager.

The restrictions have been lifted because of fair weather conditions and a sufficient amount of firefighting resources available to the government agency, BLM stated.

However, “even though restrictions are no longer needed, we're asking the public to be very careful when using fire,” Trost added. “Under the right conditions, our public lands still have potential for wildfires to spread rapidly and become dangerous.”

BLM asks all who recreate on public lands to be extremely careful by adhering to some precautions when using fire.

These include making sure there is a 10-foot circle cleared around a campfire, having a shovel and plenty of water available, and putting the fire completely out before leaving.

In addition, smokers need to make sure their cigarettes or cigars are put out when they are through smoking, and dispose of the butts properly.

Also, motor vehicles should never be parked where the exhaust system could cause grass or other vegetation to ignite.

To report a wildfire in the Yuma area, call Arizona Interagency Dispatch Center at 1-800-309-7081.