In response to increasingly dry conditions, elevated fire danger and forecasts indicating continued warm and dry weather across southwest Colorado, the Town of Pagosa Springs is enacting Stage 1 fire restrictions effective at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, June 6.
The restrictions were ordered by Town Manager David Harris pursuant to the town's emergency authority and following consultation with local fire and emergency management officials. The restrictions will remain in effect until further notice.
"Protecting our residents, visitors, businesses and natural resources is our highest priority," said Harris. "Current conditions and the forecasted weather patterns create an increased wildfire risk. These restrictions are a proactive measure to reduce the potential for human-caused fires within the Town of Pagosa Springs."
• Building, maintaining, attending, or using any open fire, campfire, charcoal fire, coal fire or wood-burning fire, except as specifically allowed below.
• Open burning of any kind.
• The sale or use of fireworks for personal use.
• Fires contained within liquid-fueled or gas-fueled stoves, lanterns, grills and heating devices that can be turned off with a valve.
• Indoor fireplaces and wood-burning stoves.
• Outdoor charcoal grills and wood-burning devices located at private residences, provided they are used in areas cleared of all flammable materials, including dry vegetation.
• •Commercial or community fireworks displays that have been authorized by the town council.
• Activities specifically authorized by the town council.
Violations of the Stage 1 fire restrictions may result in fines, penalties or other enforcement actions as authorized by law.
The town encourages all residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution with any activity that could create sparks or ignite dry vegetation. Community cooperation is essential to reducing wildfire risk and protecting lives and property.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed by signing up for emergency notifications from both the Town of Pagosa Springs and Archuleta County. The town's alert system provides important local government updates, while Archuleta County's Nixle alert system delivers emergency notifications and public safety information, including wildfire updates, evacuation notices and other urgent alerts. Signing up for both systems helps ensure you receive timely information from the appropriate agency.
To sign up for Town of Pagosa Springs alerts, visit pagosasprings.co.gov and select "Subscribe to Alerts," or text "PagosaSprings" to 38276. To sign up for Archuleta County Nixle alerts, visit local.nixle.com/register.
Residents are also encouraged to prepare now for wildfire season by creating an evacuation plan and assembling a "go bag" or 72-hour emergency kit. Emergency supplies should include important documents, medications, nonperishable food, water, flashlights, backup batteries, phone chargers, a battery-powered AM/FM radio and pet supplies. Taking these steps in advance can help ensure you and your family are prepared to evacuate quickly and safely if conditions warrant.
Anyone who observes a suspected fire restriction violation, unattended fire or smoke plume should immediately contact Archuleta County Combined Dispatch. Emergencies should be reported by calling 911. Nonemergency concerns or suspected violations can be reported to dispatch at (970) 264-8430.
>