FLAGSTAFF, Ariz.—The Coconino County Board of Supervisors has approved a ban on open burning on public and private lands in the unincorporated areas of the County. The ban takes effect Wednesday, May 16 at 10 a.m. and will remain in effect until fire danger conditions subside.

The ban includes all open fires, campfires, fireworks and other pyrotechnic displays on private and public lands in the unincorporated areas of the County. Excepted from the ban are petroleum-fueled stoves or lanterns, enclosed charcoal barbeque grills operated in residential yards and special events specifically approved by the Board of Supervisors.

“The continued dry weather has made for dangerous fire conditions throughout the County and much of the state,” said County Supervisor Chairman Carl Taylor. “It’s our hope that imposing this ban will help to avoid additional devastating wildfires that threaten our communities.”

The Board’s decision to impose the ban is in conjunction with fire restrictions placed on the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests, the City of Flagstaff and Coconino County Parks and Recreation.

Citizens are reminded to use caution when smoking cigarettes outdoors and to completely extinguish them.

The use of any machinery that may emit sparks, such as chainsaws and welding equipment should be used with caution during the extreme fire danger period. Be prepared and have fire extinguishing equipment readily available.