****Press Release**** ****For Immediate Release*****
As a result of the critical fire conditions we are currently experiencing, effective Friday, April 20th 2018 at 08:00 hours, Copper Canyon Fire and Medical Authority will implement a fire ban within its jurisdiction.
This ban is going in effect in cooperation with other bans being implemented by Yavapai County, the Prescott National Forest, the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest, as well as the other fire departments and fire districts across the Verde Valley.
This ban impacts all open burning within the district, including burn barrels, with or without burn permits.
Enclosed BBQs (propane and briquette- with a lid) are not effected by this ban at this time, although the public is always encouraged to be especially careful when using cooking appliances outdoors, and especially when the conditions are as dry as we are currently experiencing.
The public is also encouraged to be very careful with the disposal of smoking materials during this period.
If conditions continue to worsen, additional restrictions may well be implemented to prevent a catastrophic fire. Such measure might include the banning of smoking outdoors, bans on the use of briquettes and/or BBQs, bans on the use of chain saws or other combustible engines/tools that might produce sparks, bans on welding or grinding without special permits or standby measures, and/or bans on other hazardous processes.
The current ban or additional restrictions will remain in effect until we see significant summer rains to lessen the threat.
With our current dry conditions, low humidity, warmer temperatures and gusty winds, everyone is being encouraged to be extremely careful during this period.
Thank you! Be Safe!
Terry Keller
Fire Chief
Copper Canyon Fire and Medical Authority