New, stricter fire restrictions at Coconino National Forest

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – Coconino National Forest officials are implementing more fire restrictions starting Thursday due to the hot weather and an increase in abandoned campfires.

The new restrictions ban any fires, campfires and the use of charcoal, coal and wood stoves. Visitors at the forest near Flagstaff also won’t be able to use any explosives or fireworks, and use of a chain saw will be limited to certain hours.

Officials say they found 34 abandoned campfires over the weekend.

There are several wildfires burning around Arizona, including one that’s burning on 24 square miles (62 square kilometres) just south of the forest. Firefighters in the southern part of the state are also battling a new fire near Sonoita, about 45 miles (72 kilometres) southeast of Tucson, that has already claimed eight structures.