New Mexico County Bans Open Burning

Bernalillo County commissioners have banned open burning and campfires in the unincorporated areas of the county.

The commission’s vote Tuesday also restricts smoking to enclosed buildings, within vehicles with ashtrays and in developed recreation areas.

County Fire Chief John Garcia says residents and visitors to Bernalillo County should be aware of the fire danger this year.

He’s asking people to report fires or suspicious activities in wildland areas to 9-1-1 before they become large fires.

The ban is in effect for 180 days.