TELLER COUNTY, Colo. (KOAA) — Teller County has implemented Stage One fire ban restrictions due to increased fire danger following a dry couple of months, despite wet conditions.
The fire ban prohibits open burning of materials that are not contained in an outdoor fireplace or permanent fire ring. Residents are also banned from using fireworks, model rockets, or any other explosive devices.
Burning in irrigation ditches is prohibited under the new restrictions, unless the ditch is fully surrounded by irrigated farmland.
Teller County Commissioner Dan Williams said the decision came after consulting with local fire officials and emergency management personnel.
"Yes in quite a few years. I chaired a wildfire council board meeting which includes our fire chiefs and OEM. Measured fuels moistures in our trees are extremely low. In an abundance of caution we instituted the ban despite a little moisture falling," Williams said.
Williams noted that federal partners are also evaluating conditions in the area.
"We inform our USFS partners who also attended the council meeting and they are reviewing conditions as well. We generally try and stay synchronized," Williams said.
The restrictions come as the area experiences heightened fire danger after an extended dry period, even as wet weather moves through the region.
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