MARICOPA COUNTY DECLARES FIRE EMERGENCY
Campfires and Open Fires Banned
Maricopa County has declared a fire emergency as a result of extensive fires in and around the Cave Creek and Carefree areas in northern Maricopa County.
All campfires and open fires on public and private land are prohibited until the fire emergency is determined to no longer exist.
Board of Supervisors’ Chairman Max Wilson signed the proclamation late this afternoon.
Chairman Wilson said, “The pictures from the Cave Creek fires illustrate just how explosive the desert brush is right now. This action will hopefully remind everyone to take precautions with any open fire.”
The Maricopa County Emergency Operations Plan has been activated as a result of today’s action. The County’s Emergency Operations Center has been opened and staff will be manning the center. Emergency Services staff will provide support to other County and emergency services agencies working the fire.
Violation of the campfire and open fire ban is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Penalties could include up to six months in jail and fines up to $2500.