Forest officials put more fire restrictions in place in Arizona

PHOENIX — Coconino and Kaibab national forests added to their fire restrictions Friday, citing increased fire dangers.

Forest agency representatives said the restrictions will be in place indefinitely at the Williams and Tusayan ranger districts.

Banned are:

1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or stove fire, including fires in developed campgrounds and improved sites.

2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building.

3. Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun, except while engaged in a lawful hunt pursuant to state, federal, or tribal laws and regulations.

4. Operating any internal combustion engine from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

5. Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame.

Among the exemptions to the ban were motorized vehicles that complied with forest regulations.