Forest Officials Urge Visitors to Exercise Caution Over Holiday Weekend

Forest Officials Urge Visitors to Exercise Caution Over Holiday Weekend
Release Date: May 23, 2013 Goleta, CA
Contact(s): Andrew Madsen (805) 961-5759

With the elevated threat of wildfire due to extreme drought conditions across the Central Coast, Los Padres National Forest officials are reminding the public to exercise caution when using Forest campgrounds and trails over the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. Los Padres fire officials stressed that Level III fire restrictions are in effect and will be vigorously enforced.

“It’s bone-dry across the Forest, and we’re strongly encouraging everyone who comes out to enjoy the recreation opportunities on the Forest to do so in a safe and responsible manner,” said Deputy Forest Fire Management Officer Jimmy Harris. “The extended drought, rising temperatures, and warm winds create the conditions for a significant wildfire.”

Under current fire restrictions, wood and charcoal fires are prohibited in all areas of Los Padres National Forest except for designated Campfire Use Sites; however persons with a valid California Campfire Permit are allowed to use portable stoves and lanterns using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel outside of designated Campfire Use Sites. California Campfire Permits are available for free download from the Los Padres National Forest website (http://www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf). All flammable material must be cleared for a distance of five feet in all directions from your camp stove, a shovel must be readily available, and a responsible person must attend the stove at all times when it is in use. Smoking is prohibited in all areas of Los Padres except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or designated Campfire Use Site.

Current fire restrictions also prohibit recreational target shooting in all areas of the National Forest unless specifically authorized by a special use permit with the Forest. Hunting with a valid State of California hunting license during open hunting season is exempt from this restriction.

“If these guidelines are followed, we can reduce the likelihood of an uncontrolled wildfire,” Harris said.

For further information regarding current conditions and safety tips, contact your nearest Forest Service office or visit the Los Padres National Forest website at http://www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf.