The Montezuma County commissioners on Monday suspended the fire ban for the unincorporated areas of the county.

Early last week, the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management had discontinued their bans in Southwest Colorado, and midweek, Mesa Verde National Park dropped the restrictions it had retained in drier areas of the park.

Although seasonal rains and cooler weather have reduced the fire danger throughout the area, both public lands managers and local fire officials urge continued caution.

Those planning controlled burns notify a dispatcher at 565-8441.

Suspected wildfires or structure fires should be reported immediately.