Why You Shouldn’t Play With Fire
Editor’s Note: We don’t mean to make fun. This press release from the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office is an example of how easily an idea that may seem good in the heat of the moment can turn bad. We’re posting this in the public interest, particularly because the ongoing drought and existing fire restrictions make backyard burning illegal in some places, ill-advised in others.
YCSO — At approximately 9:30 AM, today, a homeowner in Humboldt was burning tumbleweeds in his back yard. The fire jumped over a block wall fence and into an open field near the closed smelter plant. The homeowner called 911 to report the fire.
His use of a garden hose in an attempt to put out the fire was unsuccessful. The fire grew with light winds in the area. YCSO and Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) responded. Locks to the closed commercial property had to be cut to gain access to the fire. The fire grew to nearly an acre in just a few minutes before fire crews were able to extinguish the flames.
Deputies met with the homeowner and cited him for Reckless Burning due to well publicized fire restrictions in place. Attempts to get a burn permit would have been met with clear notice that burning has been suspended.
YCSO and fire officials cannot emphasize enough to follow fire restriction regulations. THE RISK IS TOO GREAT AND THOSE IN VIOLATION WILL BE CITED. YOUR COOPERATION IS APPRECIATED.
Citizens can contact the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office with information or questions at 928-771-3260 or the YCSO website: www.ycsoaz.gov