BLM lifts fire restrictions in these Arizona counties after lower wildfire risk

The Bureau of Land Management lifted seasonal fire restrictions Thursday for portions of central and southern Arizona under the federal agency's jurisdiction after increased rainfall limited the risk of wildfires, according to the BLM in a news release.

Starting Thursday, seasonal fire restrictions would be lifted for areas under the control of the BLM's Phoenix District Office, which governed BLM land in Maricopa and Yavapai counties, along with portions of northern Pinal and western Pima counties.

An increase in rainfall throughout the region left typical wildfire fuel damp and hard to start a wildfire, which led the BLM to make the decision to recall the restrictions, the agency noted in the news release.

Shooting sites to reopen under restriction lift

Recreational shooting sites within the Phoenix district would reopen on Friday, Aug. 23, and included sites at Baldy Mountain, Church Camp Road and Saddleback Mountain.

The shooting site at Box Canyon will remain closed until Sept. 2 for planned maintenance, according to the BLM, who would share further updates on shooting sites on the agency's website .

Here's how to make sure you follow fire restrictions on BLM land

The BLM reminded Arizonans to verify fire regulations, restrictions and area closures by using their website . The agency provided the following rules and tips for anyone using public land:

• Use metal fire rings or grills where present. Wood placed on a fire should never exceed the size of the grill or fire ring.
• If building a fire on the ground (where permitted), choose a location away from adjoining or overhanging flammable material, and ensure the ground beneath and around the fire is clear of all flammable materials. Avoid fires on windy days if possible.
• If you have a campfire, make sure it is fully extinguished before leaving the area. Fires should be doused with water and dirt and stirred with a shovel until completely cold to the touch.
• If you are using a portable stove, make sure the area is clear of grasses and other fine fuels. Prevent stoves from tipping and starting a fire.
• Never throw cigarettes out of the window of a vehicle. Use an ashtray instead.
• Practice Leave No Trace principles — pack out cigarette butts and burned materials from your camping area.
• Never park over dead grass; a vehicle’s catalytic converter can ignite the vegetation.
• Use caution while discharging a firearm, operating an internal combustion engine, welding, or operating acetylene or other torches with an open flame, or using explosives (where permitted).
• Fireworks and exploding targets are always prohibited on BLM-managed lands in Arizona.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: BLM lifts fire restrictions in these Arizona counties after lower wildfire risk