If you didn't believe it before, believe it now – the wildfire situation in Sanders County is dire.

Recognizing the danger presented by additional fire starts when several large fires are already burning in the area (see other story), the Sanders County Commissioners have elected to enact Stage II fire restrictions across the county beginning Saturday, July 17.

Under Stage II guidelines, the building, maintaining, attending or using of a fire or campfire is prohibited; smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is clear of all flammable material; logging operations or firewood cutting is prohibited from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m. (and a one-hour patrol is required following the cessation of activities).

Outdoor welding or operating acetylene or other open-flame torches requires a 10-foot clearing of all flammable material before work can begin, and the use of explosives also mandates a one-hour wait period upon cessation of those activities.

Operating motorized vehicles off designated roads and trails is also prohibited under Stage II guidelines.

People can still use barbecue grills provided that an area within three feet of the device is cleared and that running water reaches the area. Mowing green, irrigated lawns and operating generators in cleared areas is still allowed.

Other exemptions include obtaining a permit that specifically authorizes the otherwise prohibited act, construction sites that are cleared of all flammable material, the emergency repair of public utilities and railroads, all lands within city boundaries and other exemptions unique to each agency.

Violations of Stage II restrictions are a misdemeanor and punishable by six months in Sanders County Jail and/or a fine of $500.