As the yard and property spring-cleaning season continues, Durango Fire Protection District reminds residents that open burns within the city limits are prohibited and approved permits are required for open burns held outside city limits.
Open-burn permits are free and take about 10 minutes to complete. They can be found online at www.durangofire.org, and at the Durango Fire Prevention District Office, 104 Sheppard Drive, from noon to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
“Red Flag Warnings” are determined by the National Weather Service based on predicted wind speeds and relative-humidity forecasts. For instance, high winds and dry-air conditions allow fuels to burn hotter and fires to spread faster, and often result in Red Flag Warnings. Those with approved permits for open burns are required to call dispatch at 385-2900 the morning of the burn and ensure conditions are safe. After conditions are approved, it is the responsibility of the resident to maintain and monitor the burn, and extinguish it if conditions change or it becomes out of control. Residents are also liable for damages or property loss that result from an out-of-control burn.
Fire restrictions can be put into place at any time to mitigate fire danger according to forecasts, weather and fuel conditions.
There are three types of restrictions:
Stage one: Building, maintaining, attending or using fires, campfires or stove fires, including petroleum stoves, lanterns or heating devices, without a stage one restriction exception permit is prohibited in all restricted areas, except in Forest Service-designated campgrounds and picnic areas. Smoking is prohibited in all instances except when in enclosed vehicles or buildings, developed recreation sites or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that has been cleared of all flammable material. Operations that involve welding, acetylene or other open-flame torches are prohibited. The use of any internal or external combustion engine without a properly installed, working spark-arresting device is prohibited.Stage two: All fire activity is prohibited in all areas, including Forest Service-designated campgrounds and picnic areas, without a stage two restriction exception permit. Smoking is prohibited unless in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or within areas at least 3 feet in diameter cleared to mineral soil.Fire bans: All open fires are banned and extreme fire conditions exist.For more information, call 382-6000 or visit www.durangofire.org.
fstone@durangoherald.com
