CODY — The Wapiti, Clarks Fork and Greybull ranger districts of the Shoshone National Forest have implemented Stage 1 fire restrictions within all portions of the three districts effective immediately. The purpose of this order is to protect public health and safety and natural resources by reducing the risk of human-caused wildfires during periods of high fire danger, drought and severe weather conditions.

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, the following acts are prohibited:

1. Igniting, building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire (including fires by charcoal or briquettes) except if it is in:

a. A permanent metal or concrete fire pit or grate that the U.S. Forest Service has installed and maintained at its developed recreation sites (campgrounds and picnic areas);

b. A device solely fueled by liquid or gas that can be turned on and off, used in an area barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 3 feet of the device; or

c. A fully enclosed metal stove with a chimney at least 5 feet in length and a mesh screen spark arrestor in an area that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials within 10 feet of the device.

2. Smoking is prohibited, except in an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

3. Operating or using any internal or external combustion engine without a spark arresting device properly installed, maintained and in effective working order.

4. Blasting, welding, or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame, except if in a cleared area of at least 10 feet in diameter and a chemical pressurized fire

5. Using an explosive.