Stage 1 fire restrictions in place

Fire restrictions eased on Wyoming portions of national forest

CUSTER, S.D. — Fire restrictions on the Wyoming portions of the Black Hills National Forest’s Bearlodge and Hell Canyon ranger districts were reduced to Stage 1 at midnight Oct. 23, allowing campfires in designated fire rings at developed recreation sites.

Under Stage 1 restrictions, campfires, including those fueled by charcoal or briquettes, are permitted only in permanent metal or concrete fire pits or grates installed and maintained by the U.S. Forest Service at developed recreation sites, campgrounds and picnic areas.

Liquid- or gas-fueled devices with an on-off control are allowed if all flammable materials are cleared within 3 feet of the device.

Fully enclosed metal stoves also are permitted if they have a chimney at least 5 feet long and a mesh spark arrestor with openings no larger than a quarter-inch. Flammable materials must be cleared within 10 feet of the stove.

Other Stage 1 restrictions include:

• Explosives: Using explosives is prohibited.

• Smoking: Smoking is allowed only inside an enclosed vehicle or building, at a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is free of flammable materials.

• Welding and torches: Welding and operating acetylene or other open-flame torches are prohibited unless the work takes place in a cleared area at least 10 feet in diameter. Operators must keep a pressurized chemical fire extinguisher with a minimum capacity of 8 ounces and a Class 2A rating with them.

Forest officials consider current and anticipated fire danger, available resources and consistency with neighboring jurisdictions when determining whether restrictions are needed.

For updates on fire restrictions, forest conditions and recreation, visit the Black Hills National Forest alerts page or the forest’s Facebook page.