Fire managers Monday downgraded the fire danger level in the Angeles National Forest from “Extreme” to “Very High.”

“This change will once again allow forest visitors to use campfires and BBQs within designated campgrounds and picnic areas, where steel fire rings and stoves are provided,” said an Angeles National Forest statement, which credited last week’s rains for bringing some moisture to exceedingly dry vegetation.

“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 outside of a developed recreation site;

– 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;

– Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun, except in the authorized public shooting ranges.

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