Tinder-dry vegetation, lingering drought conditions and increasing daytime temperatures have prompted fire restrictions that begin at midnight Friday.
“Vegetation in Western Nevada and eastern California is significantly drier for this time of year,” said Bureau of Land Management spokeswoman Lisa Ross. “Below-average moisture this past winter and spring and warmer-than-average temperatures has led to the increased rate of drying the vegetation.”
Residents are asked to report fires to the Sierra Front Interagency Fire Dispatch Center in Minden by calling 775-883-5995, or by dialing 911.
The restrictions prohibit the following activities outdoors:
• Building a fire, campfire, or stove outside a developed fee campground or picnic area. Portable stoves using gas or pressurized liquid fuel may be used.
• Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or at a developed campground or picnic area.
• Welding or operating an acetylene torch with open flames.
• Using an explosive.
• Possession or use of fireworks.
• Use of tracer rounds, steel-core ammunition or exploding targets during recreational shooting.
• Open burning.
People who cause fires can be fined up to $10,000 and sentenced to six months in jail. For more information about the restrictions, call the BLM Carson City District Office at 775-885-6000 or the Nevada Division of Forestry at 775-849-2500.
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