Boulder County, Colo. - Sheriff Joe Pelle would like to remind Boulder County residents and visitors that the unseasonably warm and dry weather along with the late winter winds have created conditions that will greatly influence large uncontrolled wildfire.

Boulder County is automatically in fire restrictions anytime dry and windy conditions result in a Red Flag Warning, a High Wind Warning, or a Fire Weather Watch Warning being issued for our county by the National Weather Service. No open burning will be allowed anywhere in the unincorporated areas of the county under those conditions.

It becomes a violation of county ordinances to burn outdoors on any fire restriction day. An intentionally set fire, such as an agricultural burn, that escapes and damages the property of another person will likely result in arrest and prosecution of the person who lit or maintained the fire, for arson. By law they may also be held responsible for the cost of fighting the fire.

Residents are encouraged to refrain from outdoor activities like field mowing, recreational shooting, welding, and operating heavy equipment that could cause a spark. In addition, if you previously conducted slash pile burns, or other broadcast burns, please closely monitor those areas. We have had multiple fires that are a result of flare-ups from previously conducted burns, as long ago as two months prior.

Those living in areas of high fire danger should re-evaluate their evacuation plan and ensure they are prepared to quickly and safely evacuate their homes.

Fortunately, weather should be returning to more normal cool and moist conditions towards the end of the week, so these recommended precautions and restrictions are only for a short duration.

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