ARCADIA, Calif., Oct. 18 — Fire officials raised the Fire Danger Level from “Very High” to “Extreme” in the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. “One reason for this change is to enhance public awareness of the threat wildfires pose to the health and safety of the forest and those who enjoy it. Another is the current and long-range weather predictions indicating above normal temperatures, below-average relative humidity, and precipitation, coupled with periods of strong, gusty ‘Santa Ana’ winds. By restricting the use of fire throughout the forest, and increasing staffing levels, the objective is to reduce the potential of a catastrophic wildfire starting” said Angeles Forest Fire Chief, Robert Garcia.

Restrictions Include:

• Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire, throughout the national forest and national monument.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
• Welding, or operating an acetylene or other torches with open flame.
• Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun, except in the authorized public shooting ranges. A person with a valid permit for the Forest Service or hunting with a valid California hunting license may discharge a firearm according to their permit or license.
• All previous restrictions apply.

For a list of all fire restrictions visit us online at https://go.usa.gov/xp3rD