Frequently Asked Questions about Fire Conditions and Restrictions
Frequently Asked Questions about Fire Conditions and Restrictions In Frisco — Summer 2012
Is there a fire ban in Frisco and Summit County?
Yes, in fact the state of Colorado is currently under a fire ban and Summit County (where Frisco is located) recently moved into a Stage 2 Fire Ban, which prohibits all open burning. The term “open burning” means any outdoor fire, including but not limited to campfires, warming fires, charcoal grill fires, fused explosives, fireworks, and any other activity that poses a significant risk of starting a fire. This ban has implications for all contractor trades, including but not limited to, plumbers and tree cutting services with regards to nail guns, chainsaws, torches, welding equipment and any other tools that have the potential of causing a spark. Proper safety precautions including five (5) gallon containers of water and 2A10BC fire extinguishers must be immediately available.
The fire restrictions imposed by the Town of Frisco strictly prohibit and make it unlawful for a person to engage in any activity that poses a significant risk of starting a wildfire. Restrictions include:
- Building, maintaining, attending or using any fire or campfire, coal, or wood burning stove. Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: commercially designed outdoor fireplaces, gas fueled fire pits or chimineas, gas fueled heaters or lamps, outdoor candles, luminaries, and tiki torches.
- Disposing out of doors any burning object, including without limitation cigarettes, cigars, or matches.
- Operating a chainsaw without an approved spark arrester, 5 gallons of water, a 2A10BC classified dry chemical fire extinguisher and a round point shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches. The fire extinguisher must be immediately accessible to the equipment operator. The water and shovel may be kept with fueling supplies but must be readily available for use.
- Welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, without a permit or letter of authorization from the Town.
- Inflating and propelling hot air balloons.
Restrictions do not include the use of liquid-fueled or gas-fueled stoves or fires in fireplaces contained within buildings.
Is the fire danger serious?
Yes, we are currently at an Extreme fire danger which signals that there is no significant moisture left in trees and vegetation because of an extended period of low moisture. Also, because of weather conditions over the past 18 months there is an abundant amount of fuel. We want people to enjoy all the beauty and outdoor fun that Frisco has to offer; still, we ask visitors and locals to be aware of the dry conditions and take necessary precautions.
How are other fires in Colorado affecting Frisco? At this time the fires throughout Colorado are not affecting the visible air quality in Frisco, access to Frisco or any activities in Frisco.
For the latest Colorado Air Quality ratings visit: http://www.colorado.gov/airquality/colorado_summary.aspx
Will Frisco have 4th of July fireworks?
No, the conditions are not safe for any fireworks and all fireworks are prohibited. Local law enforcement agencies have a zero tolerance policy for anyone setting off fireworks. The Town of Frisco Municipal Court will assess fines up to $999 with possible jail time of 364 days for convicted offenders.
Will the fireworks happen if it rains prior to July 4th?
The long range forecast indicates that there is no significant precipitation in the forecast for the next 10 days. It would take a full week of steady rain to begin to return moisture to our forests. Then it would need to continue to rain so that the forests would remain wet for the 4th of July celebrations in order for fireworks to be safely launched. The extended forecast indicates that this is extremely unlikely.
Are all other 4th of July celebrations aside from fireworks still happening?
Yes, it will be a wonderful day to celebrate in Frisco. We’ll have a great parade, an air show, two concerts and much more. Please click here http://www.frisco4th.com for a full slate of July 4th events.
How can I stay informed about fire conditions?
Sign up for SC Alerts to receive Frisco and Summit County alerts: http://scalert.org
Go to http://www.ldfr.org for more specific information on the conditions around Frisco.
Go to InciWeb for information about fires in Colorado: http://www.inciweb.org/state/6/ and http://activefiremaps.fs.fed.us/
Who do I call to report a fire or smoke?
Please call 911 immediately to report a fire or smoke.
Who do I call for updated information on fire danger and restrictions?
Lake Dillon Fire Department (970) 262-5100
Summit County Sheriff’s Office (970) 453-2232
Town of Frisco Police Department (970) 668-3579
Dillon Ranger District (970) 468-5400
