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Steamboat Magazine

Dry Conditions Spark Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

06/16/2021 10:23AM ● By City of Steamboat Springs
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO – The City of Steamboat Springs will implement Stage 1 Fire Restrictions starting at 10:00am on Wednesday, June 16, 2021, and these restrictions will remain in effect until rescinded or expanded.

“Drought conditions continue for much of the state and the Yampa Valley bringing restrictions much earlier than normal,” said Chuck Cerasoli, Fire Chief for Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue (SSFR). “Fire risks are elevated before even factoring in any human elements and we’re asking everyone to be extremely cautious as any wildland fire will severely stress local resources.”

The city’s restrictions match Routt County. In addition, the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management announced Stage 1 Fire Restrictions for the entire Routt National Forest and Thunder Basin National Grassland effective today.

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, certain activities are prohibited, however, the public may have recreational fires at private residences with a valid SSFR permit until Stage 2 restrictions are in place.

Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreational site, or while stopped in an area of at least three (3) feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material is prohibited under Stage I.

Operating a chainsaw without a USDA or SAE approved spark arresting device is prohibited. In addition, a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher is required to be with the operator and additional supplies should be readily available for use.

“Conditions continue to change daily, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see additional restrictions coming in the very near future,” continued Cerasoli. “As has been the unfortunate case in the past, one spark can get out of hand and grow quickly which is something no one wants to see.”

Please review the Stage I Fire Restrictions for permitted and prohibited activities and contact Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue with questions at 970.879.7170.