Fire restrictions will start earlier than normal in Arizona this year thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic and rapidly-rising temperatures.

Campfires will be banned in all six national forests across the state starting Wednesday at 5 p.m., according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The ban prohibits igniting, building, maintaining, attending or using a fire in the forests until June 30, or until revoked, the release detailed.

Pressurized liquid or gas devices such as stoves, grills or lanterns, with shut-off valves are still allowed in areas at least 3 feet away from any flammable materials.

Violating the ban could result in a federal court appearance, fines and possible jail time.

Typically, campfire bans aren't enacted until a bit later in the season. However, officials hope the early restrictions will keep fire and medical resources from being diverted to human-caused wildfires. It will also reduce firefighters' exposure to COVID-19 during the pandemic, the release said.

"Wildland firefighters aren't immune to this virus and we are implementing fire restrictions earlier than usual this year to reduce the exposure in responding to preventable human-caused fires," said Dorilis Camacho Torres, spokeswoman for the Southwestern Region Forest Service.

While much of the state is shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic, the majority of the six national forests are still open, and "dispersed camping" outside developed campsites and other recreation is still available.

“While we know that going outside provides forest and grassland visitors needed space, exercise and satisfaction, we are taking the risks presented by COVID-19 seriously,” said Acting Regional Forester Elaine Kohrman. “We are providing some recreation opportunities where we can while protecting and keeping employees, the public and our communities safe from the virus and unwanted human-caused wildfires.”

However, the fire danger is still rising as temperatures climb, causing grasses and leaves to dry out. The risk will only increase as temperatures increase in the upcoming weeks. The National Weather Service in Phoenix said that Saturday could be the first possible 100-degree day this year.

Reach breaking news reporter Alyssa Stoney at alyssa.stoney@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on Twitter @stoney_alyssa