Elevated fire restrictions put into effect for Cleveland National Forest

Elevated fire restrictions went into effect today for the Cleveland National Forest, which encompasses more than 460,000 acres in the counties of San Diego, Riverside, and Orange.

Restrictions are put into effect when fire danger levels increase due to weather, seasonal temperatures and other risk indexes, including high winds or lightning.

A handful of activities are restricted within forest boundaries until

further notice, including:

- using gas and liquid stoves and lanterns;

- smoking within forest;

- using firearms; and

- welding, grinding, cutting or using explosives, as well as other activities requiring a special use authorization.

Additionally, year-round restrictions continue on fireworks and the use of wood or charcoal fires outside developed campgrounds in the southernmost national forest in California, which is divided into the Descanso, Palomar and Trabuco Ranger Districts.

Spark arresters are also required for all off-highway vehicles, chainsaws and other internal combustion equipment.