Town of Avon Implements Stage 1 Fire Restrictions

 

Avon, CO – Due to the combination of unusually high temperatures and dry windy conditions, there is an increased risk for wildfires throughout Colorado. As a result, the Town of Avon has implemented “Stage 1” fire restrictions that will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, July 2^nd prohibiting all open burning for private lands in the Town of Avon.

Eagle County, the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service White Rive National Forest will be implementing the same restrictions.
 
The Town of Avon will be enforcing temporary restrictions:

 
Fireworks are always prohibited in the West Avon Preserve, on BLM, National Forest and National Park Service lands.
 
Fire restrictions on these lands will be in place until further notice. Violation of federal fire restrictions is punishable by fine of not more than $100,000 or imprisonment for not more than 12 months or both. Those found responsible for starting wildfires will also face restitution costs of suppressing the fire.
 
Due to the increased risk for wildland fires, the Town of Avon would like to encourage residents to take personal responsibility and prepare before a wildland fire occurs. 
Homes in or near forested areas are classified as Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas and are at risk in any wildfire event. When you build or buy a home in one of the WUI areas, you have accepted the fact that these areas may have poor access, dense vegetation, steep slopes, and poor or no water supply for fire suppression. To prevent a tragedy, you need to be aware of wildfire hazards and what to do when a wildfire occurs in your area. 

Check with your local fire department to determine the wildfire hazard in your area, and what can be done to reduce the hazard. Obtain guidelines for creating a “defensible space” around your home that will increase the chances that your home may survive a wildfire. Create defensible space of at least 30 ft. by doing the following: