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Fire Restrictions to take effect in National Forest (Corrected)

Press Release From San Bernardino National Forest

By RIMOFTHEWORLD.net
Friday, July 6, 2007

San Bernardino, CA July 6, 2007 - Due to the unusually hot and dry weather and recent wildfire activity, San Bernardino National Forest Supervisor Jeanne Wade Evans announced today that she is implementing additional fire restrictions on Tuesday July 10th. "With the lack of rainfall and hot and dry conditions, forest visitors need to know how to help us reduce the risk of fire."

Under the restrictions, no open campfires or charcoal fires are allowed outside of designated recreation sites such as campgrounds, picnic sites. Fires will NOT be permitted at our yellow post sites.

Target shooting will be permitted only at developed shooting ranges, including the Lytle Creek Firing Range, Big Bear Sportsman's Club and Lake Arrowhead Fish and Game Conservation Club Target Range. Target shooting restrictions will not impact the use of a firearm while legally hunting.

The Forest will not be closing any areas to the public at this time, but is encouraging visitors to use extra caution. "We're asking the public to be extra vigilant and think about every action they take." Wade Evans added.

Restrictions will include:

* No open campfires or charcoal fires are allowed outside of Picnic Areas and Campgrounds.

* Gas and Propane camping stoves and lanterns are permitted.

* Smoking is limited to enclosed vehicles, developed recreation sites, and areas cleared of vegetation three feet in diameter.

* An approved spark arrestor is required for any internal combustion engine operated off state or county highways or designated forest roads. These include chainsaws, generators, motorcycles, and off-highway vehicles.

* A permit is required for welding or operating any torch device with an open flame or for use of any explosive device.

* FIREWORKS and steel core or Teflon ammunition are never allowed.

* Shooting a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun is only permitted at developed shooting range (listed above).

In addition to the above seasonal restrictions, Deputy Fire Chief Dan Snow reminds visitors that fireworks are always prohibited on the San Bernardino National Forest. "We want people to enjoy the Forest, but to do it responsibly," he added. "We need the public's cooperation more than ever this year."

For more information about the Allowable Activities, visit our website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sanbernardino/ or call the Forest information number at (909) 382-2600.