STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-August 19, 2020-The City of Steamboat Springs will implement Stage 2 Fire Restrictions at 1:00am on Thursday, August 20, which will remain in effect until rescinded. The city’s restrictions match Routt County and US Forest Service.
“It will take commitment from everyone to help spread the word on the Stage 2 fire restrictions and the very real danger we all face of a wildfire start in our area,” commented Interim Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue Fire Chief Chuck Cerasoli. “I think we can all agree that the last thing we need is the stress of a wildfire burning close to or in our community. Please help keep each other safe!”
Stage 2 Fire Restrictions prohibits all open fires and campfires, explosive use, as well as welding and cutting torch devices. Smoking is allowed in a vehicle or indoors. In addition, all chainsaws and other internal combustion engines, including motorcycles and ATVs, must have spark arresting devices that are property installed and in working order.
Unlike earlier restrictions, individuals with recreational burn permits from Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue for fire pits at private residences are also prohibited from burning under Stage 2.
The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Warning for the Yampa Valley until 9pm Wednesday evening. A Fire Weather Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are occurring or will shortly. The National Weather Service mentions that possible Red Flag Warnings could also be announced.
Dry conditions, warmer than normal temperatures and reduced precipitation have been predominant across the city and forecasts continue to call for dry weather in the region along with the potential for dry lightning and gusty winds. Four large fires, Williams Fork Fire (6,600+ acres), Cameron Peak Fire (14,000+ acres), Grizzly Creek Fire (27,000+ acres) and Pine Gulch Fire (87,000+ acres) are currently burning in the northwestern portion of the state.
Agricultural, businesses and other entities within city limits and in the Steamboat Springs Area Fire District that require work which involves prohibited activities under Stage 2, must obtain an exemption from Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue, 970.879.7170. Within Routt County and outside of the fire district, individuals must contact the Emergency Management Office.
The community last moved to Stage 2 in 2018 when the area experienced several small wildfires and two larger fires, the Silver Creek and Ryan Fires. Please review the Stage 2 Fire Restrictions for permitted and prohibited activities and contact Steamboat Springs Fire Rescue with questions, 970.879.7170.
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Contact
Chuck Cerasoli, Interim Fire Chief, 970.879.7170 or email
Michael Lane, Communications Manager, 970.871.8220 or email