Fire restrictions in Arapahoe and Roosevelt National Forests downgraded to Stage 1

Fire restrictions have been downgraded in the national forests and grassland near Fort Collins.

Fire restrictions in Arapahoe and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland dropped from Stage 2 to Stage 1 as of noon Tuesday in Larimer, Weld, Boulder, Clear Creek and Gilpin counties, according to a news release.

Here's what is not allowed under Stage 1 fire restrictions:

• Igniting or using a fire outside of a developed campground or recreation site with established Forest Service fire rings or grills. This includes fires fueled by charcoal or briquettes.
• Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet away from any flammable materials.
• Operating a chainsaw without a spark arrestor properly installed and a fire extinguisher and a shovel on hand.
• Blasting, welding or operating a torch with an open flame without being in a cleared area of at least 10 feet in diameter and having a fire extinguisher on hand.

Fireworks are always prohibited in National Forest System lands, according to the news release.

Here's what is allowed under Stage 1 fire restrictions:

• Open fires contained in permanently constructed metal or concrete fire pits and charcoal grills that were installed and are maintained by the Forest Service at developed campgrounds and picnic and administrative areas.
• Liquid or gas-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices with power switches on surfaces clear of flammable vegetation.

Violating Stage 1 fire restrictions could result in a fine up to $5,000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, more than six months in prison or both, according to the news release. If someone is found responsible for causing a wildfire, that person could be held accountable for suppression costs of the fire.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Fire restrictions in Arapahoe and Roosevelt National Forests downgraded to Stage 1