MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST – Fire restrictions were lifted on the Mendocino National Forest on Friday, forest officials reported.

That means that forest visitors may once again have open campfires and camp stoves outside of designated campgrounds providing they are in possession of a valid California Campfire Permit, as well as use welding equipment, operate internal combustion engines and smoke.

"The cooler Fall temperatures and some percipitation have reduced the threat of extreme fire danger, and the prediction is for more precipitation next week," said Forest Supervisor tom Contreras.

Fire management officials stress that the Northern California fire season is not yet over. "Larger fuels in the forest are fairly dry and the potential still exists for new fire starts," said Assistant Forest Fire Management Officer Steve Decker. "We ask that visitors use good fire sense and remember to never leave campfires unattended."

Visitors may obtain a free California Campfire Permit from any Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management or Cal Fire office prior to going out into the forest.

The permit lists requirements for clearing ground around camp fires, how to completely extinguish fires and which tools must be kept at the campfire site at all times.

For additional information, please contact Decker at (530) 934-3316, TTY (530) 934-7724.

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