The Riverside County Board of Supervisors authorized the fire department Tuesday to immediately close more than a half-dozen hiking and off-road vehicle escapes through the summer due to high fire danger.

In a 4-0 vote, the board approved county fire Chief John Hawkins' request to close recreational grounds located mainly in the central and southwestern sections of the county.

The chief cited concerns over dry conditions and the likelihood that a wildfire could easily ignite in each of the "hazardous fire areas" -- all of which were ordered closed to the general public by the board around the same time last year.

The fire department sought the closures last year to hold down foot and vehicle traffic in the areas, thereby limiting the chances of a wildfire.

Signs will be posted at entry points to each location, warning potential violators of fines and other penalties.

Fire wardens and sheriff's deputies will patrol the areas, according to fire department officials.