Phoenix (AZ Family) — The Maricopa County Department of Parks and Recreation has extended a fire ban on all county parks until the end of the month.
As the camping season begins to get into full swing, the ban on open flames will also be extended. But Michael Weber, park supervisor at McDowell Mountain Preserve Park, said triple-digit temperatures in October continue to create ideal wildfire conditions.
“Increased winter rains have created ideal conditions for non-native hardwood and grass species, heavier fuel loads, and deserts are now full of fuel,” he said. “It’s going to get hotter and the fires are likely to continue burning into the fall.”
The following things are prohibited under Fire Strictly Prohibited:
- campfire
- bonfire stand
- charcoal grill
- Smoking outside your car or camper
Propane and gas grills are only allowed in campground and ramada areas.
Weber said it is critical for the department to take these fire ban regulations seriously, especially after the significant number of human-caused fires this summer.
“Constructing new housing is massive,” Weber said. “I think the Wildcat Fire is still under investigation, but human-caused fire is suspected. And the Boulderview Fire is suspected because people were chipping away at the fence line.”
If you plan on visiting or camping in Maricopa County Parks this month, Weber said it’s important to be careful when cooking food at campgrounds, even if you’re using a propane grill. He also urged people to always make sure there is water nearby in case of an emergency.
Which parks are included in this ban?
- Lake Pleasant Regional Park
- White Tank Mountain Regional Park
- Adobe Dam Regional Park
- Buckeye Hills Regional Park
- Estrella Mountain Regional Park
- Hassayampa River Reserve
- San Tan Mountain Regional Park
- Usary Mountain Regional Park
- McDowell Mountain Regional Park
- Cave Creek Regional Park
- Sparkcross Ranch Reserve
For more information on the prohibition of open flames, please visit the following website: county website.
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