DFPA Raises Fire Danger and Public Use Restrictions to Extreme

Fire danger and public use restrictions will rise to their highest level this week across lands protected by the Douglas Forest Protective Association.

Beginning at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, the Fire Danger Level and Public Use Restriction Level will increase to Extreme throughout the Douglas District.

The change applies to private, county, state and Bureau of Indian Affairs lands protected by Douglas Forest Protective Association (DFPA). The agency said rising temperatures, lower relative humidity and critically dry vegetation prompted the increase.

Industrial Fire Precaution Levels will remain at IFPL Level 3 in regulated use areas DG-1, DG-2, UA-1 and UA-2, along with forestland located within one-eighth mile of those areas.

Activities Prohibited Under Extreme Restrictions

The following activities are prohibited on protected lands within the Douglas District:

• Using non-industrial power saws
• Cutting, grinding or welding metal
• Cutting, trimming or mowing dried or cured grass
• Operating power-driven machinery for non-industrial improvement or development projects on private property

The State Forester or an authorized representative may approve a written modification or waiver in certain circumstances. The restrictions will remain in effect until they are replaced or ended through another closedown order.

Public Asked to Prevent Human-Caused Fires

DFPA is reminding residents and visitors that a single spark could quickly start a fast-moving wildfire under the expected hot and dry conditions.

Open fires remain prohibited, including campfires, charcoal fires, cooking fires and warming fires, except in designated locations where specifically allowed. Debris burning and the use of burn barrels are also prohibited.

Fireworks, tracer ammunition and exploding targets are not allowed on protected lands.

Drivers should avoid parking or traveling over dry grass because hot exhaust systems and catalytic converters can ignite vegetation. Vehicles and trailers should also be inspected for dragging safety chains, worn brakes, fluid leaks or other problems that could create sparks.

Smoking materials should be fully extinguished and never thrown onto the ground or from a vehicle.

Anyone planning to work or recreate outdoors should check current restrictions and follow all posted closures and regulations. Smoke or suspected fires should be reported immediately by calling 911.

“Every fire prevented helps protect lives, homes, forests, and the firefighters who respond,” DFPA said in its announcement.

More information is available through the Douglas Forest Protective Association’s website and social media pages, or by calling the DFPA office at 541-672-6507.