Campfire and smoking restrictions on the Tonto National Forest have been lifted, effective at 8 a.m. on Friday, July 13.

The fire restrictions, which covered the entire forest, are no longer needed because fire danger has been reduced by increased humidity levels and rain. Campfires and smoking are now allowed throughout the forest. Target shooting is still prohibited in some areas of the Tonto National Forest, but is allowed again in dispersed areas where it can be conducted safely.

Forest Supervisor Neil Bosworth extended special thanks to the visiting public during the fire restrictions and closures which began in May.

“We want to thank everyone for their compliance while restrictions and closures were in effect on the Tonto National Forest,” Bosworth said. “It was an exceptionally dry year, and we appreciate everyone’s efforts to prevent wildfires.”

Please continue to help prevent wildfires by:

*Making sure your campfire is completely out. If it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.

*Checking safety chains before heading out to make sure they are not dragging on the road.

*Maintaining spark arrestors and not running power equipment on windy days.

*Parking a vehicle over barren soil. Dead grass could be ignited by a hot catalytic converter.

Following these simple tips prevents sparks, which could mean one less wildfire.

For more information, visit the Tonto website at fs.usda.gov/tonto or call 602-225-5200.