Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office REQUEST FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE

Request for Public Assistance

Request for Public Assistance Notice

Date: March 1, 2026

To: Montezuma County Residents and Visitors

Subject: Wildfire Prevention Needed

The Open Fire Ban in Montezuma County under Ordinance Number 02‑2015 requires that citizens and visitors be cautious and responsible with open fires, and maintain control of all fires to prevent them from becoming out of control.

Any planned controlled burning requires the property owner or agent to call the Cortez Communication Center at (970) 565‑8454 before burning, to verify that no Red Flag Weather or High Wind Warnings have been or will be posted for that day.

Everyone can help keep our county and communities safe by following these fire‑safety rules:

• Watch weather reports and do not burn on high fire‑danger days.
• Contact your local fire district or the County Sheriff for guidance on preparing a safe controlled burn.
• Have your fire district inspect your planned burn ahead of time to ensure safety.
• Keep controlled burn piles small to reduce burn time.
• Plan burns for early morning hours when temperatures are cooler.
• Clear a minimum 20‑foot diameter area of vegetation around the burn pile.
• Burn in a pit at least three feet deep to help control ash and embers.
• Have a fire mitigation plan with hand tools, shovels, water, and a fire extinguisher.
• Keep the fire under control at all times.
• Never leave the fire unattended.
• Ensure the fire is completely extinguished when finished.

All fireworks that explode or leave the ground are prohibited by Colorado State Law.

Thank you for your cooperation and assistance.