(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal decided to continue Stage I Fire Restrictions for all unincorporated areas of El Paso County last week.
On Wednesday, Aug. 7, Sheriff Joseph Roybal, Fire Warden, announced the fire restrictions would remain for the time being. Current restrictions had taken effect in late July due to the high chance of fire and multiple forest fires burning in Northern Colorado.
“Although precipitation levels and fuel conditions have improved throughout the Pikes Peak region, our indicators continue to demonstrate the need for precautions. Other fires across the nation, including the Front Range of Colorado, have drawn down readily available resources, which is a critical part of the decision-making matrix my Office uses when considering restrictions,” said Roybal. “Considering these circumstances, I am opting to remain vigilant in my approach to fire and will remain in Stage I Fire Restrictions for the time being.”
Stage I Fire Restrictions in effect prohibit the following activities:
Open burning, with the exception of fires and campfires within permanently constructed fire grates in developed campgrounds and picnic grounds; charcoal grills and wood-burning stoves at private residences in areas cleared (three feet distance) of all flammable materials.
Any use of fireworks without a professional display permit, outdoor pyrotechnics such as explosive targets or model rockets.
Outdoor smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter, barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
Welding or operating an acetylene or similar torch with an open flame is prohibited except in an area cleared of vegetation.
No internal combustion engine operation without a spark arresting device properly installed and in working order.
Prescribed burns: any previously issued permits for such burns are revoked.
The fire restrictions will remain until they are modified under El Paso County Ordinance #22-001.
“My staff briefs me regularly on current fuel conditions to ensure the most appropriate restriction level is maintained,” Roybal stated. “As your Sheriff, I will continue to monitor conditions and make appropriate, responsible decisions about lifting, maintaining, or increasing county-wide restrictions in the future.”
EPSO urges all citizens of and visitors to the Pikes Peak region to abide by the Order and share in the responsibility of keeping the community safe.
“I thank the citizens (and visitors) of El Paso County for their vigilance and dedication to preventing unnecessary wildfires,” Roybal said. “Prevention requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, and I am grateful to see our community actively working and engaged in this effort.”
EPSO is asking individuals to please report any suspected violations of the Order by calling (719) 390-5555.
For more fire information, click the link above.
