County imposes fire restrictions

Larimer County Commissioners adopted fire restrictions on July 29 because hot and dry conditions have increased the risk for dangerous wildfires.

The restrictions prohibit open fires and the use of fireworks in the unincorporated areas of the county. The county is not restricting contained open fires at this time, however.

Campers may use camp stoves and grills that use bottled gas or pressurized liquid. People may also use permanent metal or masonry fireplaces, and they may use charcoal grills on noncombustible surfaces at their private residences.

Smoking in the open is not allowed under these restrictions. Commissioners also banned the sale of fireworks within the unincorporated areas.

The county's fire ordinance is available online at www.larimer.org/policies/. Violators may be fined. Sheriff Jim Alderden can approve exemptions.