EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) — The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO) announced Stage II Fire Restrictions on Monday.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe current conditions create an extreme risk for wildfires which can spread rapidly and threaten lives, homes, and critical infrastructure,\u201d\u00a0said Sheriff Joseph Roybal.<\/p>\n
Stage II Fire Restrictions mean a ban on the following activities, according to EPSO:<\/p>\n
Open Burning & Fires:\u00a0All open fires and open burning are prohibited. This includes campfires, warming fires, charcoal grill fires, and the use of wood-burning stoves (except as noted below).<\/p>\n
Fireworks:\u00a0The sale and use of all fireworks are strictly prohibited.<\/p>\n
Outdoor Smoking:\u00a0Smoking is prohibited outdoors. Smoking is only allowed within an enclosed vehicle or building.<\/p>\n
Explosives:\u00a0The use of explosives is prohibited.<\/p>\n
A violation could result in a fine up to $1,000, according to EPSO.<\/p>\n
EPSO says the following activities are currently permitted:<\/p>\n
Indoor Heating & Fireplaces<\/p>\n
The use of fireplaces or wood-burning stoves is permitted, provided they are located within a building.<\/p>\n
Gas-Fueled Appliances (Stoves, Fire Pits, & Appliances)<\/p>\n
Allowed Locations:\u00a0Only in developed campgrounds, picnic grounds, or at private residences.<\/p>\n
Required Fuel:\u00a0Must be fueled by liquid propane (LPG), natural gas, or other liquid fuels.<\/p>\n
Safety Clearance:\u00a0The area must be cleared of all flammable materials for at least 3 feet in all directions.<\/p>\n
Flame Limits:\u00a0Flame lengths must not exceed 2 feet.<\/p>\n
Shut-off Mechanism:\u00a0The appliance must be able to be immediately extinguished by a switch, valve, or tip-over safety switch.<\/p>\n
Outdoor Welding & Torch Operations (“Hot Work”)<\/p>\n
Clearance:\u00a0Work must be performed in a clear area at least 30 feet in diameter.<\/p>\n
Fire Watch:\u00a0A dedicated fire watch must be established with ready access to a fire extinguisher or water supply to immediately suppress any resulting fire.<\/p>\n
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