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FAQ | Ask the Fire Chief

What is the Crystal Lakes insurance rating?  
The Crystal Lakes Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating is 9.


How do I know if there is a fire ban on?  
You can easily check if there’s a fire ban in place by looking at the fire conditions signs around Crystal Lakes. We add separate panels to the top of these signs whenever a fire ban is in effect. Additionally, all fire ban details will be posted on our website’s Fire Bans page. We encourage you to stay informed for your safety and the safety of our community


What kinds of fire bans are there?   

Crystal Lakes
As Fire Chief, I may issue a fire ban specifically for the Crystal Lakes area when conditions warrant it. This decision is based on factors like weather, drought, and fire danger specific to our community. It's important to note that fire conditions here may differ from those in neighboring areas like Glacier View or Roosevelt National Forest. If a Crystal Lakes fire ban is in place, it applies only to our subdivision, and violating it could result in a visit from the fire department and possible fines from the Crystal Lakes Road & Recreation Association.

Larimer County 
Larimer County can also impose fire restrictions, ranging from a complete ban (no fires allowed at all) to partial bans that prohibit certain types of open flames. These county-wide bans include Crystal Lakes. Violating a county fire ban can lead to additional fines and legal consequences beyond those specific to Crystal Lakes.


How do I join the fire department?  
Thank you for your interest in joining the Crystal Lakes Fire Department! We're always excited to welcome new volunteers to our team. Whether you’re interested in becoming a firefighter or a Special Duty Responder, you can find all the details on our Volunteering page.  There, you'll learn more about the requirements and the ways you can contribute to keeping our community safe. We look forward to hearing from you!"


How can I find out what fires are burning in the area?  
To stay informed about any fires in the area, the U.S. Forest Service and Larimer County provide up-to-date information on their websites and through information hotlines. For easy access to these resources, check out our Local Wildfires page where you’ll find links and details on how to stay updated. Staying informed is key to staying safe!"


Where can I dispose of ashes from my fireplace?  
While there isn’t a designated location for disposing of fireplace ashes in Crystal Lakes, it's important to follow safe disposal practices. Visit our Fire Safety Subjects page for tips on how to handle ash safely. Remember, ash can retain heat for days, so always stir it, test for heat with the back of your hand, and ensure it's completely cold before disposal. Never place ash near flammable materials or in the trash compactor to avoid potential fire hazards."

 

How can I get rid of branches and other organic debris resulting from fire mitigation on my property?  
Great question! There are a few ways to dispose of branches and other organic debris, often called slash, after fire mitigation. Many companies that offer fire mitigation services also provide removal or chipping of slash. If you choose to chip it, keep the chips small—ideally under 1 inch—to help them decompose faster. You can also take slash to the Larimer County landfill or the Crystal Lakes Association’s slash disposal site on North County Road 73C.


Where do I find fire pit specifications?  
For fire pit specifications in Crystal Lakes, the Crystal Lakes Road & Recreation Association (CLRRA) handles the requirements and inspections. You can find the details by visiting the Crystal Lakes website or by contacting their office at (970) 881-2250. They’ll be happy to assist you with any questions or inspections.