San Bernardino, CA, June 29, 2012, 8:00am – As the seasonal fire danger increases, forest officials are increasing fire use restrictions on the San Bernardino National Forest effective today (Friday, June 29, 2012). The forest experienced less than average winter snow and rainfall, and the seasonal outlook calls for a warmer summer with below average rainfall, which could create the potential for large fires. Forest officials are taking these steps to prevent human-caused fires and raise public awareness. Most wildfires are human-caused and forest visitors are reminded to exercise caution when visiting the National Forest and maintain a higher level of awareness with the increased fire risk. Travelers through the Forest should remain on designated roads and never park on dry brush or grass.
Fire restrictions and guidelines effective today (Friday June 29, 2012) on the San Bernardino National Forest are as follows:
- Wood and charcoal fires are permitted only in developed campgrounds and picnic grounds and within agency provided fire rings or camp stoves.
- Wood and charcoal fires are not permitted at Yellow Post campsites, Fisherman’s Camp, or the following Pacific Crest Trail Camps: Bench Camp, Deer Springs, Doble, Holcomb Crossing, Little Bear Springs, and Mission Springs.
- Campfire permits are required for propane and gas stoves and lanterns used outside of all developed recreation sites.
- Recreational shooting is limited to Public Shooting Ranges operated under special use permit only, except those engaged in legal hunting.
- An approved spark arrester is required for any internal combustion engine operated on designated forest routes. These include chainsaws, generators, motorcycles, and off-highway vehicles.
- Smoking is limited to an enclosed vehicle or building, or within a Developed Recreation Site.
- Fireworks are always prohibited on the San Bernardino National Forest.
The US Forest Service will be aggressively citing those who do not comply with the posted restrictions. A violation could result in a fine up to $10,000 or imprisonment for up to six months, or both. Persons may also be responsible for resource damage, suppression costs and any injuries that occur if they are found liable for causing a wildfire. Forest visitors are encouraged to “Know Before You Go” and call the Big Bear Discovery Center at 382-2790 to check on location conditions and restrictions.
[audio:https://kbhr933.com/wp-content/uploads/SP31574.mp3|titles=Fire Restrictions – Mike Evans Reporting]
