Fire Watch for Cleveland National Forest

Cleveland National Forest imposed elevated fire restrictions Sunday for the Santa Ana Mountains and Ortega Highway sections of Orange County.

Dry conditions and hot weather have increased the risk of fire, Cleveland National Forest Public Affairs Officer Brian Harris told City News Service.

Under the elevated restrictions, visitors must bring spark arresters for all off-highway vehicles and chainsaws, and cannot build wood or coal fires except in designated campground areas.

Gas, liquid and petroleum stove operations are allowed in all camping and picnic spots except for areas of Descanso and Palomar Ranger District and the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness Area on the Trabuco Ranger District. Shooting guns is allowed only during hunting season or for target practice in designated areas of the forest.

Smoking is allowed only inside an enclosed vehicle located on developed recreation sites, Harris said.

"When you see a Smokey Bear sign that reads, `Fire danger today is very high,' you need to know that the likelihood of a wildfire starting and then quickly developing into a large fire is a strong possibility,'' Cleveland National Forest Fire Chief Carlton Joseph said. "The public needs to be extremely careful.''

For information about localized fire restrictions in the Ortega Highway, San Mateo, Orange County and Corona areas, check with the Trabuco Ranger District at 951-736-1811.