Fire Danger Extremely High

Flagstaff, AZ (June 22, 2011) – The Coconino National Forest will expand campfire and smoking restrictions to include the entire national forest including developed campgrounds and recreation sites, effective Wednesday morning, June 22.

This restriction prohibits all fires, campfires, charcoal, coal and wood stoves and limits smoking to within enclosed vehicles or buildings. Pressurized liquid or gas stoves and lanterns meeting safety specifications will continue to be allowed. Approved stoves and lanterns include devices that can be turned off.

Violations of restrictions are punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, imprisonment for not more than six months, or both. Fireworks are always prohibited on National Forest land.

Fire prevention staff will continue aggressively patrolling, especially on weekends to inform campers of the fire restrictions. Last weekend was relatively quiet as far as fire activity on the Coconino National Forest, with most campers being compliant with fire restrictions.

For additional information on fire restrictions on the Coconino National Forest, please call 928-527-3600. For information on fire restrictions on public lands across Arizona and New Mexico, call 877-864-6985 or see