Stage 1 Restrictions Will Begin Friday

Roosevelt County fire warden Mike Olson told the Community News at press time that Stage 1 fire restrictions will go into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 23.

Olson said the restrictions resemble the county-wide burn ban already in place, with some minor differences regarding smoking cigarettes.

“The biggest difference is about smoking,” said Olson. He said campfires are allowed if a manufactured fire pit is available. Rock rings will not suffice. Liquid petroleum stoves that can be turned on and off are allowed.

Regarding smoking, the restriction language reads, “Smoking is prohibited outside vehicles, buildings and developed recreation sites, unless you are in a 3-foot diameter area cleared of all burnable vegetation and materials.”

Olson said, “We’re getting to the driest part of the year and people need to be vigilant.”

He added efforts to clear and create fire breaks at home and agricultural sites are highly recommended.

Olson said Bureau of Indian Affairs fire crews will be hanging posters with Stage 1 information across the Fort Peck Reservation in coming weeks.

Call 406-653-6246 for more information.