SALT LAKE CITY – Humans have been the main cause of wildfires in Utah so far this year, and fire authorities are putting restrictions in place to contain the flames.

According to Utah Fire Info, there have been 203 wildfires in the state as of June 1. Utah Fire Info reported that 163 of those were human-caused.

Now, fire officials are asking Utahns to do their part and follow summer fire restrictions.

Fire restrictions

Stage 1 fire restrictions were put into effect for southwestern portions of the state Sunday.

According to a Facebook post from Utah Fire Info, areas in Washington, Kane and Garfield counties are asked to follow fire-safe guidelines such as:

• No campfires or open flames outside of developed campsites, recreation sites and homes with running water;
• No smoking near vegetation or outside in developed areas,
• No equipment use without a spark arrester.

Fires are now completely prohibited in Zion National Park, as Stage 2 restrictions are in effect.

“Use your #Firesense – prevent wildfire starts this summer,” the Facebook post said.

Preventing wildfires

Wildfires can spread quickly, often having major impacts on wildlife and whole communities.

For those wanting more education on preventing wildfires, Utah Fire Sense provides free information and videos outlining dos and don’ts during the summer months.

The organization highlighted the importance of dousing coals completely before walking away from a fire, avoiding dry grass when parking, and checking for potential fire hazards in your line of fire during target practice.

To view Utah’s active wildfires and other restrictions, click here.

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