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Sheriff Keeps Stage One Fire Restrictions in Effect

Sheriff Keeps Stage One Fire Restrictions in Effect

Forecasts of an end to monsoon rain storms and a return to hot, dry conditions has prompted Fremont County Sheriff Jim Beicker to leave Stage One fire restrictions in place. Recent heavy rains caused Beicker to lower restrictions under the county's fire ban from Stage Two to State One last Thursday, July 6th. Beicker was prepared to ask the Fremont County Commissioners at Tuesday's regular board meeting to lift the fire ban completely but he said the forecast for more hot weather changed his mind. Beicker said "We didn't get into the drought in a week's time, and we won't get out of the drought with one week of rain". Beicker said predictions of temperatures climbing back into the upper 90's raised concerns that the timber and grass fuels that were so dry this spring and summer would rapidly raise fire danger conditions again.

Among the primary prohibitions under Stage One fire restrictions is a ban on all open burning and agricultural burning. Campfires are permitted only in metal rings in campgrounds or parks. Charcoal grills, propane grills, and other enclosed fuel stoves are permitted under the Stage One restrictions. For a complete listing of Stage One restrictions you can go to Fremont County's web site at www.fremontco.com and click on the 'Fire Ban' link on the main page.