Thursday, March 29, 2012

FIRE RESTRICTIONS INSTITUTED IN GILPIN COUNTY

Due to the increased risk for fires in Gilpin County, the Gilpin County Sheriff's Office has instituted Stage 1 Fire Restrictions effective at 5:00 p.m., May 29, 2012. The restrictions are as follows:
  • NO building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire* without a permit EXCEPT in a developed camp or picnic ground. The following actions ARE permitted:  petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices providing such devices meet the fire underwriters specifications for safety.
  • NO smoking unless 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. 
  • NO operating of welding, acetylene, or other torches with an open flame.
  • NO operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained, and in effective working order.
Exemptions:

  • Person with a permit specifically authorizing the prohibited act or omission.
  • Resident owners and leasers of land within the restricted area are exempt from above restrictions provided such fires are within the residence.
  • Any federal, state or local officer or member of an organized firefighting force in the performance of an official duty.
*A stove fire is defined as a campfire built inside an enclosed stove or grill, portable brazier, or a pressurized liquid or gas stove, including a space-heating device.