Fire restrictions are now also being stepped up in the Tahoe National Forest. That’s starting Wednesday, which is also July first. Michael Woodbridge, at the Public Affairs Office, says that’s actually a month later than last year, despite a worsening drought…

click to listen to Michael Woodbridge

The restrictions mean no open burning, including no camping or charcoal fires, except in designated areas….

click to listen to Michael Woodbridge

Woodbridge says the number one human cause of wildfires is, by far, escaped campfires, especially campfires that have not been completely extinguished. He says there have not been that many violations outside designated areas, but it only takes one to possibly spark a major blaze. Also…no smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle, building, or designated recreation site.