Visitors to the Mount Hood National Forest cannot build campfires, smoke or operate a generator outside of designated areas until October, according to fire restrictions issued by the U.S. Forest Service.

Due to hot, dry conditions, visitors can have fires only inside fire rings in designated developed recreation sites, such as campsites and picnic areas, the agency said.

"We know campfires are a big part of camping, but this year is unusually hot and dry so we all need to do our part to ensure the safety of the public," Forest Supervisor Jim DeMaagd said in a statement Thursday.

The order is in effect until Oct. 15 unless rescinded, the Forest Service said.

Until then, the agency also prohibited:

-- Operating a generator, except in designated developed recreation sites.

-- Possessing or using motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and other motorized vehicles on National Forest system trails.

-- Smoking, except within an enclosed building, vehicle, developed campground or cleared area at least three feet in diameter.

The Forest Service asks campers to keep their campfires small and attend them at all times. Fires should be doused with water, stirred and should feel cool to the touch before left unattended, the agency said.

Campers outside of designated areas can use gas grills, propane stoves and other flame sources that can be turned off.

The conditions have put the state in critical danger of wildfires. Gov. Kate Brown declared a state of emergency last week as several wildfires burned across Oregon.

A new wildfire near the Warm Springs Indian Reservation destroyed two homes and was threatening 70 more. Firefighters hadn't yet contained the fire Thursday.

Anyone who starts a fire will be held responsible for property damages and could face criminal charges for any loss of life.

More information about the fire restriction can be found here. Public fire restrictions across the state can be found here.

— Samantha Matsumoto

503-294-4001; @SMatsumoto55