Sweetwater County is currently in Stage One Fire Restrictions and Sweetwater County Fire Warden Mike Bournazian predicts these restrictions could extend through the summer.
Under the restrictions, fireworks are prohibited; campfires are only allowed at residences or campsites with a fire ring centered within a minimum of a 15-foot radius cleared of burnable materials; charcoal fires within enclosed grills are permitted; and several other activities that could start a fire, including the use of welding materials and portable stoves, should also be within a minimum of a 15-foot radius cleared of burnable materials.
Bournazian said that he never wants to implement fire restrictions, but sometimes it’s necessary.
“I do not like to limit anybody’s recreational activities,” Bournazian said. “Unfortunately this year the conditions just warrant it.”
This summer, fire danger is above average with high drought conditions and low moisture, according to Bournazian. He predicted fire restrictions will be necessary until “well into August,” but noted that conditions can always change.
During the July 20 county commission meeting, the language of the fire restriction resolution was updated to give Bournazian more freedom to work with federal agencies to make decisions regarding fire future restrictions in the county — either going into Stage Two restrictions or removing the current restrictions.
Despite the increased fire danger, Bournazian said that the Sweetwater County Fire Department has had an average year when it comes to responding to fires. Bournazian said the department has responded to a few fires with the Bureau of Land Management, but “nothing outrageous.” He said the largest so far was a gravel fire that burned about 160 acres.
Bournazian also said he hasn’t heard of any problems enforcing fire restrictions in Sweetwater County.
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