Manitou Springs enacts fire restrictions

(MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo.) — Manitou Springs is now in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions as of noon on Friday, Oct. 11.

According to the Manitou Springs Fire Department (MSFD), the ongoing wildfire risk, as well as current and forecasted weather conditions, has prompted fire restrictions.

“This is an important time for our community to recognize the heightened risk of wildland fires,” said John Forsett, Fire Chief of MSFD. “The cooperation and data-driven analysis provided by the Pikes Peak Region Wildfire Preparedness Group (PPRWPG) and our local partners have been invaluable in reaching this decision.”

What Stage 1 Fire Restrictions mean:

1. Open fires and open burning are prohibited, except in permanently constructed fire rings within the city’s RV and camping parks. Private residential charcoal grills, smokers, wood-burning fireplaces (chiminea), and fire pits are allowed, provided they have proper-fitting screen covers and are separated by at least 15 feet from structures or other combustible materials.
2. Outdoor smoking of any tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, is prohibited. However, smoking is permitted within 15 feet of a city-approved disposal receptacle at designated locations. Discarding lighted tobacco products outdoors, outside of approved receptacles, is strictly prohibited.

Exemptions to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions:

• Gas-fueled grills and liquid-fueled or gas-fueled stoves used outdoors are permitted, as long as they are at least 10 feet from combustible materials (excluding private residential structures).
• Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves within private residences that comply with the city’s building and fire codes are not subject to these restrictions.

Red Flag Warning Protocol

If a Red Flag Warning is issued for the Manitou Springs area by the National Weather Service, Ordinance No. 1022 automatically enforces Stage 2 Fire Restrictions for the duration of the warning.

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