Caution urged ahead of the summer season as dry conditions fuel a wildfire risk

The Lincoln County Board of Commissioners has issued a Declaration of Fire Danger Emergency (Resolution 2020-44) in accordance with Lincoln County Ordinance 2017-03 and Lincoln National Forest Stage 1 Fire Restrictions. The emergency declaration includes a ban on all burning of open flames, fires, campfires (except in official designated areas), trash, shrubbery, or other material of any kind except by permit. This resolution is to remain in effect for 30 days or until rescinded or extended by the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners.

Help keep our forest, firefighters, and local communities safe. Dry conditions are expected to continue through June. These fire restrictions help prevent wildfires so you can continue to enjoy the forest for many years to come. Help us spread the word by sharing this post.

Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are also in effect within Lincoln National Forest. Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, the following are prohibited:

• Igniting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, including charcoal grills and briquettes, except in a Forest Service-provided fire structure (i.e., metal ring, permeant on-site grill) within developed campgrounds and day-use areas. Propane grills, stoves, and lanterns with an on/off switch are still permitted.

• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of any flammable material.

• Fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are ALWAYS prohibited on National Forests.

• Violators of the above restrictions are subject to fines and/or imprisonment.

Residents and visitors can help keep Ruidoso safe by following these wildfire prevention tips when camping and/or recreating outdoors.

For more tips on fire prevention, visit fdacs.gov or firewise.org