Stricter rules are imposed to prevent wildfires

The National Park Service will step up wildfire restrictions at parks and monuments in the area Friday, and the Santa Fe National Forest will impose similar restrictions forestwide Monday morning as the fire danger increases across the region.

Bandelier National Monument, Valles Caldera National Preserve, Pecos National Historical Park and Fort Union National Monument are all affected by the park service’s tougher fire rules, according to a news release the agency issued Thursday.

The Stage 2 restrictions throughout the Santa Fe National Forest will begin at 8 a.m. Monday and “will remain in effect across the forest until conditions allow forest officials to change or lift the restrictions,” a separate news release said.

Both agencies are banning all fires, restricting smoking to inside cars and buildings, and prohibiting vehicles from driving off established roads.

Other things banned under the fire restrictions are charcoal grills, coal and wood stoves, welding and open-flame torches, and explosives, including fireworks.

Petroleum stoves, lanterns and propane grills with turn-off valves are permitted if they are used more than 5 feet away from grasses, pine needles and other flammable materials.

The Santa Fe National Forest also is prohibiting use of chain saws and similar equipment between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. The Park Service, meanwhile, is prohibiting use of firearms in parks and monuments.

“While we recognize that these restrictions may impact people’s camping or picnicking plans, they are necessary to protect public health and safety due to increased fire danger,” Bandelier Superintendent Jason Lott said in the news release.

“We want the public to continue using and enjoying these parks,” Lott said, “but we need them to use caution and help us reduce the risk of human-caused fires.”