In coordination with federal, state and local partners, the Tonto National Forest terminated the Stage 1 Fire and Recreational Target Shooting Restrictions last Friday, July 22.

The decision to lift restrictions was based on increased monsoonal weather that lowered the fire danger across the forest. Fire restrictions are implemented to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during periods of extreme fire danger and elevated fire weather conditions.

“Even though fire restrictions are lifted, we still need the public to practice campfire safety and to make sure their vehicles are routinely inspected to prevent roadside fires from occurring,” said Forest Supervisor Neil Bosworth. “The Tonto is a special place, and we all need to do our part to keep it that way for generations to come.”

Tips for practicing campfire safety:

*Keep your fire small.

*Always keep water and a shovel nearby and know how to use them to put out a campfire.

*Be sure an adult is always watching the fire.

*Keep an eye on the weather.

*Sudden wind gusts can blow sparks into vegetation outside the cleared area, causing unexpected fires.

*Make sure a campfire is completely out.

Before leaving the forest campfires and charcoal embers from BBQ grills must be completely extinguished after use. Abandoned campfires are a major cause of wildfires. Always keep enough water on hand and a tool to drown and stir fires. If it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave. More campfire safety and prevention tips can be found at Smokeybear.com.

Violators of regulations that prohibit abandoning a campfire are subject to a fine and/or imprisonment. If an abandoned campfire causes a wildfire, violators can also be held responsible for fire suppression costs.

Vehicle fires and dragging trailer chains cause many fires on the Tonto. The Arizona climate is tough on tires and wheel bearings; tire blowouts or worn bearings can be dangerous and can also cause wildfires. Adjust trailer chains to prevent them from dragging and sparking a fire. Many tire shops and mechanics are available in the area to provide professional assistance in inspecting vehicles and often inspection is free.

Additionally, recreational target shooting has the potential to cause wildfires when users set up targets in areas with dry grass and other highly flammable fuels. Shooting without a backstop or berm is dangerous. The use of refuse such as appliances and old vehicles can generate sparks. Items like these are prohibited on the forest. The Tonto Target Type Forest Order 03-12-00-21-467 is available online.

More information about the Tonto National Forest can be found at fs.usda.gov/tonto.