The Board of Carter County Commissioners in regular session and in consultation with Sheriff Neil Kittelmann recently determined to enter into stage 1 fire restrictions, effective at midnight on Friday, August 28.

Stage 1 fire restrictions help land management agencies reduce fire risk and prevent wildfires during periods of high to extreme danger. Conditions in the county and surrounding areas indicate there is a necessity in implementing these precautions.

PROHIBITIONS:

1. Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire. 36 CFR 261.52 (a)

a. This includes charcoal barbecues and grills and burning of garbage and refuse

i. EXCEPT: Building,, maintaining, attending or using a fire in constructed, permanent fire pits or fire grates within developed recreation sites and the use of portable stoves, lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum, pressurized liquid fuel or a fully enclosed (sheepherder type) stove with a quarter inch spark arrester type screen is permitted.

2. Smoking, except in 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 all flammable material. 36 CFR 261(b).

3. Operating a chainsaw without a USDA or SAE approved spark arrester properly installed and in effective working order, a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher kept with the operator, and one round point shovel with an overall length of at least 35 inches readily available for use. 36 CFR 261.53(h).

4. Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame except in cleared areas of at least 10 feet in diameter and in possession of a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher. 36 CFR 261.52

5. Using an explosive. 36 CFR 261.52 (b)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is following the county's lead in placing fire restrictions on its properties, so campfire and smoking restrictions will also be in place at Medicine Rocks State Park. Under Stage 1 restrictions, building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or campfire at FWP sites is not allowed. Additionally, FWP urges people to use caution while they are out recreating due to dry conditions and fire dangers.

These restrictions will be in place until further notice.

Any questions or concerns regarding stage 1 fire restrictions should be directed to Sheriff Kittelmann.