SAN BERNARDINO NATIONAL FOREST OPEN FOR VISITORS, WITH CAUTIONS
While some portions of the San Bernardino National Forest have been impacted by the on-going Lake Fire near Barton Flats, most of the Forest is open to visitors, with some cautions:
Several campgrounds remain closed. You can see the full list at http://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/4302/
Wherever you are in the forest, be advised that
• There is no possession or use of fireworks.
• No wood or charcoal fires are permitted.
• An approved spark arrester is required for all off-highway vehicles.
• Smoking is only permitted within enclosed buildings or vehicles.
• Recreational shooting is limited to Public Shooting Ranges operated under special use permit only, except those engaged in legal hunting.
To check on local conditions, call ahead to a ranger station. Their phone numbers are:
• Big Bear Discovery Center 909-382-2790
• Lytle Creek Ranger Station 909-382-2851
• Idyllwild Ranger Station 909-382-2922
• Millcreek Ranger Station 909-382-2881
• Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitors Center 760-862-9984
SAFE AND SANE FIREWORKS ILLEGAL IN COUNTY
Many people have fond memories of celebrating the Fourth of July by twirling sparklers, watching firework fountains, and snakes. But the San Bernardino County Fire Department reminds residents that possession of any type of fireworks, including “safe and sane” fireworks like sparklers, snakes, and fountains, is against the law in unincorporated areas of the county. Firefighters in the City of Twentynine Palms and the Town of Yucca Valley also remind residents that all fireworks are illegal in their municipalities. Anyone caught with fireworks can be fined and jailed. In the event a fire occurs due to the use of fireworks, those responsible not only face fines of up to $1250 for a first offense, but can also be charged with the costs of fighting the fire. Property owners who allow fireworks on their property can also face criminal charges.
4TH OF JULY TIPS TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE
The fifth of July is the busiest day of the year for many animal shelters, as many dogs panic due to the loud bangs from fireworks celebrations, run off, and get lost. Managing editor Tami Roleff has some tips on how to keep your dog safe this weekend…
Many dogs are terrified of the noise from fireworks, whether they are the professional fireworks or just bottle rockets being shot off down the street. To keep your dog safe, don’t leave it out in the yard when fireworks are going off; bring it inside your house or garage. Have your dog properly identified, ideally with a microchip and a collar with ID tags, or at least, a collar and tags. Never shoot off fireworks around pets; besides scaring them with the loud noises, the fireworks could cause burns or trauma to the face or paws. Other items that are harmful to pets include glow jewelry and insect repellent not designed for animals (including citronella).
CHP MAXIMUM ENFORCEMENT OVER HOLIDAY WEEKEND
More drivers on the road for the Fourth of July weekend means the California Highway Patrol will conduct a maximum enforcement period. From 6 p.m. Friday, July 3, through midnight Sunday, July 5, CHP officers will be out in force, enforcing speed limit laws, click-it-or-ticket, and looking for DUIs. Last year, 32 people were killed in traffic collisions in California during the Fourth of July weekend and 70 percent of them were not wearing a seat belt. Motorists are reminded to buckle up, drive the speed limit, and designate a non-drinking driver.
SHERIFF TO ENFORCE OHV RULES ON HOLIDAY WEEKEND
The Sheriff’s Department will be on patrol on dirt bikes and 4-by-4 vehicles this holiday weekend enforcing off-highway vehicle violations. Reporter Sara Snyder says that OHV riders should ride in designated riding areas and trails only. Please respect private lands.
This time of year, the Morongo Basin will experience an increase in off-road activity and illegal trespass. Riders need to respect private property and public lands by riding responsibly. Make sure that your actions do not ruin the off-road experience for others.
According to county, state, and federal laws, ORVs are not allowed on any county service area roads; ORVs are not allowed on private property without written permission; public lands are closed to ORVs unless on signed routes; there is no cross-country riding in the Morongo Basin.
Please respect our private and public lands by obeying ORV rules and regulations. The only open riding areas are found at the Johnson Valley State ORV Recreation Area, off Highway 247 north of Yucca Valley.
Report OHV violations by calling the Sheriff’s department at 760-956-5001. And a reminder—always wear your helmet, and if you drink, don’t drive.
