July 21, 2023 3:40 a.m.

The Umpqua National Forest is increasing to Very High Fire Danger.

A release said Public Use Restrictions moved to Level 2 as of Friday. The Industrial Fire Precaution Level will increase to Level 3 as of Monday.

A UNF release said when the fire danger is “very high”, fires will start easily from most causes. The UNF implements fire restrictions to reduce the likelihood of human caused fires during periods of very high fire danger. Restricting actions that are known to result in accidental ignitions will serve to increase the safety and welfare of the public and employees, in addition to limiting impacts to natural and cultural resources.

Under Public Use Restrictions Level 2:

*Campfires must be in forest service constructed fire rings or fireplaces in designated sites

*Gas stoves are allowed but any grill that would create hot embers or ash are not

*Smoking is restricted to enclosed vehicles, watercraft, and areas that are clear of flammable material of a three-foot diameter

*Operating a combustion engine is prohibited except on a motor vehicle on major roads, or parking areas or on roads designated to open motorized travel based on the Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map

*These restrictions also apply to Wilderness areas

*The use of non-industrial battery or electric power equipment is exempt from these restrictions

Complete information on restrictions is available at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/umpqua