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Officials Restrict Campfires Ahead Of Fire Season

RIVERSIDE (AP) — Major fires in the San Bernardino National Forest are likely this fire season since there was little winter precipitation, fire officials warn.

Forest visitors are being asked to keep vehicles on paved roads, use extreme caution with open fires and extinguish cigarettes in vehicle ashtrays instead of tossing them out windows.

Violations could lead to unhappy campers who can be fined up to $10,000 or face six months imprisonment.

Campfires are permitted in developed campgrounds, within fire rings or camp stoves.

Some campsites prohibit fires, including Yellow Post, Fisherman's Camp, Cedar Springs and a number of Pacific Crest Trail Camps. Visitors should call local ranger stations to check locations.

Campfire permits are required for stoves and lanterns used outside developed recreation sites.

Vehicles should never park on dry brush or gas.

Recreational shooting is limited to public ranges operated under special use permit only, except those engaged in legal hunting.

Rangers ask visitors to limit smoking to enclosed vehicles or buildings.

Fireworks are always prohibited at the San Bernardino National Forest.

Violators are responsible for damage, costs and injuries from a resulting wildfire.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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