Due to the continued gusty winds, low humidity values, dry conditions and the National Weather Service forecast for continued dry and warmer than normal weather has created a very high to extreme fire danger rating, Sheriff Bill Elder has ordered Stage I Fire Restrictions for all of the unincorporated areas of El Paso County. Combined with recent dry and record hot temperatures, one spark has the potential to quickly spread into a dangerous wildfire. The Stage I Fire Restrictions shall go into effect immediately and the following are prohibited:

1.  Open fire and open burning, except;
        a.  Fires and campfires within permanently constructed fire grates in developed campgrounds and picnic grounds, or private residences in areas cleared at least 3’ of all flammable materials.
        b.  Fires in developed campgrounds and picnic grounds, or private residences contained within liquid-fueled or gas-fueled stoves, fire pits or appliances; liquid propane (LPG), or natural gas; cleared at least 3 feet of all flammable materials, with flames lengths not exceeding 2 feet.
       c.  Fires for which a permit has been obtained by the local fire protection district dating after the restriction date.

2. No use or sale of fireworks and explosive materials, including “exploding” targets or bullets and tracer rounds.

3. 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 that is barren of and cleared of all flammable materials. Exercise industry safety practices when welding or operation of an acetylene or other similar torch with open flame always cleared safe area of vegetation and combustibles.
 
Fire prevention is a community-wide endeavor, and we must all work together to prevent fires.  

The Stage I Restrictions shall remain in effect until such time the restrictions are modified pursuant to El Paso County Ordinance #21-001. The full text of the ordinance can be found here: 21-001-Open-Burning.pdf