PRESS RELEASES

SUMMIT COUNTY SHERIFF

Post Office Box 210
Breckenridge, CO 80424

For Immediate Release: June 27, 2007
For More Information Contact: Paulette Horr/Spokesperson - 970-453-2232 Ext.303

County Fire Ban Announced

FIRE BAN EFFECTIVE JUNE 30, 2007 IN SUMMIT COUNTY

The Board of County Commissioners of Summit County has signed Resolution 2007-57 enacting a Level I fire ban in unincorporated areas of Summit County effective 12:01A.M. on Saturday, June 30, 2007. This measure was based upon the existing dry conditions in the forests and grasslands in the County. The current burn index is high and the weather forecast predicts continued dryness.

A Level I fire ban prohibits open fires, the use of fireworks, and the sale of fireworks in unincorporated areas. Open fires will be allowed at improved campgrounds, within the designated fire ring, as listed on the attached Resolution.

Fires contained within liquid-fueled, gas fueled, or charcoal fueled stoves or grills are allowed on private property. Self-contained outdoor fire bowls, chimneys, chimineas, WITH SCREEN COVERS, are allowed on private property if placed on a concrete or asphalt surface.

Charcoal fueled fires, within permanent fire pits, are allowed on private property providing a) fire is under constant supervision; b) fire suppression apparatus is available at the location; c) notification of fire has been provided to the local fire district; d) notification of fire has been provided to Summit County Sheriff's Office by calling the Communication Center at 668-8600.

The fire ban will be enforced by the Summit County Sheriff's Office. The penalty assessment for violating the fire ban is a $150.00 fine for the first offense; $500.00 for the second offense; and $1,000.00 for all subsequent offenses.