Coconino, Kaibab National Forests To Enter Stage Two Fire Restrictions Saturday

Stage Two fire restrictions will go into effect on the Coconino and Kaibab national forests Saturday. The order prohibits the “igniting, building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, including charcoal grills and barbecues, as well as coal and wood burning stoves.” Campers or visitors to the forest can still use propane stoves, grills or lanterns. Smoking is also prohibited, unless it’s inside a vehicle, building or developed recreation site. The restriction also includes the prohibiting of welding or using torches with an open flame, as well as operating a chainsaw or any other piece of equipment powered by an internal combustion engine between 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The City of Williams will also close the Bill Williams Mountain Watershed area temporarily during the closure. The new restrictions run from 8 a.m. Saturday until August 1st, but could be extended if conditions warrant.