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Show Low announces stage 2 fire restrictions; open fires, debris burning prohibited
Summary
City officials announced Stage 2 fire restrictions effective 6 p.m., prohibiting campfires, debris burning, most charcoal/stove fires and other ignition sources on private property; Timber Mesa Fire will handle permit questions for welding or necessary hot‑work.
Show Low city officials announced Stage 2 fire restrictions effective 6 p.m. on May 13, prohibiting most open flames and other ignition sources on private property until further notice as local jurisdictions, including Navajo County, respond to dry conditions and active wildfires in the region.
"Stage 2, the following acts are prohibited, including on private property until further notice," Director Dragasquez said during the meeting’s closing remarks, and then listed specific prohibitions. The mayor signed a proclamation placing Show Low and neighboring jurisdictions into Stage 2 fire restrictions.
The restrictions announced by Director Dragasquez include prohibition of wood campfires and charcoal grills (with limited exceptions for UL/FM‑approved propane devices used for cooking or warmth while attended), suspension of all burn permits and debris burning, and limits on smoking outside enclosed vehicles or cleared areas. The order also prohibits use of explosives, tracer/incendiary ammunition and most open‑flame hot‑work without prior approval.
The director warned that small sources of heat can spark major fires under current conditions, citing a recent structure fire caused by embers from a charcoal grill. City staff reminded residents to avoid driving off designated roads where hot mufflers or dragging trailer chains could ignite roadside vegetation and to ensure spark arrestors are used on internal‑combustion equipment.
Timber Mesa Fire Department has permitting guidelines for welding or other necessary hot‑work; Director Dragasquez asked contractors and residents to contact that agency before proceeding with work that produces sparks. The city asked the public to cooperate with restrictions to reduce fire risk in the region.
No formal vote was required for the announcement; it was presented as a public safety proclamation and information item near the meeting’s close. The commission adjourned following the announcement.
