Fire restrictions implemented on Tonto National Forest

May 16, 2012

Officials with the Tonto National Forest have implemented fire restrictions that went into effect this morning. From Phoenix, KJZZ’s Mark Brodie reports.

MARK BRODIE: Forest officials cite hot temperatures, drought conditions and increased fire danger as reasons for the restrictions. Campfires and charcoal burning devices are now prohibited, and smoking is only allowed inside a vehicle or building, or within a developed campground. Violators could face six months behind bars, and up to five-thousand dollars in fines. Forest-goers, though, are allowed to use lanterns, heating devices and petroleum-fueled stoves. Two of the wildfires burning in Arizona are in the Tonto National Forest. The Sunflower Fire is entirely within the forest’s boundaries, and the Bull Flat Fire is partly inside the forest.