Fire managers Monday downgraded the fire danger level in the Angeles National Forest from “Extreme” to “Very High.”
However, the “Very High” level still means that there will be no use of campfires, camp stoves, or barbecues allowed throughout the forest, officials said.
The restrictions will be reevaluated in the coming weeks as moisture levels increase through further precipitation.
“Although these recent rains have brought much needed relief, it will take a series of winter storms to bring the forest’s fuel levels out of critical moisture levels,” said Robert Garcia, fire chief of the Angeles National Forest.
Fire restrictions on the Angeles National Forest are determined by a graduated system that becomes more restrictive as fire danger levels increase, and less restrictive as conditions improve. The “Low” fire danger level is the lowest level of a six-level rating system. A variety of factors determine the level, including the moisture in vegetation, weather conditions and nationwide firefighting resource needs.
Current fire restrictions include:
— building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or stove fire throughout the national forest and national monument;
— smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials;
— welding or operating an acetylene torch or any torch with an open flame; and
— discharging a firearm, air rifle or gas gun, except in the authorized public shooting ranges.