Fire restrictions imposed in western Nevada

RENO " State and federal officials have imposed fire restrictions on public lands throughout western Nevada.

The restrictions take effect today for lands managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service and the Nevada Division of Forestry's Sierra Forest Fire Protection District.

Campfires outside of developed campgrounds or picnic areas are prohibited, as is smoking except within an enclosed vehicle or developed area.

Possession or use of fireworks or any other incendiary device is prohibited, as is any open burning or use of tracer rounds, steel-core ammunition or exploding targets.

Taking vehicles off existing roads is prohibited within the Sierra fire district.

Federal agencies also urge avoiding off-road travel because hot exhaust systems can spark grass fires.