Fire season is in full force, and it’s crucial that people take necessary precautions to prevent these disasters.

Arizona is lucky that there is an abundance of beautiful forests, especially the Northern part of the state.

Before heading out for hiking or camping, the Flagstaff community should be aware of new restrictions aimed at preventing fires caused by people. These will affect three Arizona national forests.

For the entire Coconino and Kaibab forests, restrictions will prohibit any and all fires, campfires, and use of charcoal, coal and wood stoves. Developed recreation sites are the only exception.

In addition, there will be stage 1 fire restrictions for the entire Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, and nature enthusiasts should keep this in mind if they head southeast for the day. This prohibits visitors from building, maintaining, or using a fire, campfire or stove within the forest, except for Forest Service developed recreation sites. Smoking is also prohibited, unless one is in an enclosed vehicle, building or on a developed recreation site.

The Forest Service takes a variety of criteria into account when deciding on proper fire restrictions, including avaliable firefighting resources, fuel moisture, fire activity levels, and current and predicted weather conditions.

With drier conditions in area forests, these restrictions are necessary to protect Arizona’s natural wonders and resources. With wild blazes becoming more common, it’s important that members of the public work together with the Forest Service in order to prevent wildfires.

For more information on fire restrictions throughout Arizona, visit http://firerestrictions.us/az/.