Sedona AZ (May 2, 2016) – This spring and summer, City of Sedona volunteer park rangers will warn visitors in uptown Sedona about the critical topic of wildland fire danger. On days when the National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning for Sedona and the surrounding forest, the Volunteer Park Rangers will wear “Red Flag Warning Today” buttons to educate the public of the potential for a fire and the steps needed to prevent one.

A Red Flag Warning is issued when there is a combination of low humidity, winds averaging 15 mph or more, temperature greater than 75 degrees, and very dry conditions – all of which could lead to catastrophic wildfire activity.

The staff and volunteers at the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center have also joined the effort. Between the Visitor Center and the volunteer park rangers walking in uptown every day, it is hoped that they will reach as many visitors as possible.

“If this program prevents only one fire, it will be a success,” said Bob Huggins, City of Sedona Volunteer Park Rangers manager.

The Volunteer Park Rangers have three main goals: to support the city Parks and Recreation department needs, walk uptown Sedona and act as community stewards, and assist in community events.

“This is just one more amazing service that our volunteer park rangers provide. Thanks to their educational outreach as part of them being community stewards, more visitors will know the importance of fire safety in the Southwest,” said Rachel Murdoch, Sedona Parks and Recreation manager.

For more information on the Volunteer Park Rangers or their wildfire prevention education campaign, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 928- 282-7098.

Sedona City Hall is open for business Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is closed on Fridays. The Municipal Court and Wastewater system maintenance remain on a Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. schedule. Police and maintenance services are not impacted.

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