County under fire ban

The rains of early summer having left Crook County with plenty of fuel, the potential dry conditions of fall have led County Fire Warden Doug Leis to call for full burn restrictions. The ban, which went into effect this week, is intended to prevent a situation that over-extends our local firefighting capability.

During the ban, fireworks will be prohibited, as are trash, refuse, camp and charcoal fires within the unincorporated areas of the county. Petroleum stoves, lanterns and heating devices may only be used if they meet the fire underwriters’ specifications for safety.

Smoking is prohibited except within enclosed vehicles or buildings, developed recreation sites or in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials. All smoking materials, including pipe tobacco and cigars, must be extinguished and disposed of properly and may not be thrown from vehicles.

Acetylene cutting torches, electric arc welders and propane and open fire branding activities must be used in cleared areas ten feet in radius with a shovel and fire suppression present. Internal and external combustion engines such as chainsaws, ATVs and motorcycles must have approved spark arrestors and a chainsaw must also be used with a shovel and fire suppression means present.

Fireworks may only be discharged with a permit from the Board of County Commissioners and explosive devices such as tannerite are prohibited for target practice. All other open burning or outdoor fires must be authorized by a permit from the fire warden.

The ban began on September 16 and will continue until rescinded or temporarily lifted by the fire warden.