RRU NEWS - CLOSED HAZARDOUS FIRE AREA - WHITEWATER CANYON

Release Date:	08/11/2010	Release Time:	5:20 PM
Contact:	Fernando Herrera Fire Captain - PIO 951-940-6985	Subject:	ACTIVE PATROL OF CLOSED HAZARDOUS FIRE AREA IN WHITEWATER CANYON
Full Text: Due to repeated public trespassing in the closed hazardous fire area of Whitewater Canyon, CAL FIRE peace officers, in cooperation with The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and other law enforcement agencies are patrolling and citing trespassers within the posted closure area. On June 8, 2010, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved the closure of Whitewater Canyon and six other hazardous fire areas in the County at the request of Riverside County Fire Chief, John R. Hawkins. The closures, as cited in Riverside County Ordinance 787.4 restrict public access to targeted hazardous fire areas unless private property access is required within those areas. Trespassers caught in the posted closed area of Whitewater Canyon will be cited in violation of Riverside County Ordinance 787.4 and may be subject to a minimum of $100 for first-time offenses. Unauthorized vehicles parked in the closed area may be subject to towing, including additional fines and impound fees. The northern area of Whitewater Canyon near the conservancy remains open to the public for recreational use. Source: Riverside County Fire - link