As temperatures around the state continue to climb and weather forecasts project historic heat on the horizon, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging residents to avoid starting outdoor fires. DNR is also increasing the fire danger ratings and Industrial Fire Precaution Levels, and expanding burn restrictions on DNR-protected lands in Washington on both sides of the Cascades.
“Washington state is experiencing a historic drought that is increasing fire danger across our state,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. “We are implementing burn restrictions, but we can’t fully protect our forests or our communities without the public’s help.”
Fuels are in drier conditions this year than what is typical of July or August due to a lack of precipitation across the state, and with models projecting 110-degree temperatures or more in some parts of the state this coming weekend, the situation is ripe for severe fire danger.
“Hotter and drier weather conditions leave us more vulnerable to fast-spreading fires,” Franz said. “I’m urging Washingtonians this weekend to avoid activities that could accidentally spark a wildfire, especially outdoor fires. It could prove disastrous.”
Some tips to stay safe during this fire season include:
• Make sure your dirt bikes or ATVs have operating spark arrestors.
• If you’re in an area where campfires are permitted, make sure you’ve doused, stirred and doused your fire again until it is cool to the touch before heading home.
People should use this time at home to prepare for wildfire by creating defensible space by:
• Reducing dry fuels around your home
• Cleaning roof tops and gutters
• Limbing up your trees and removing dead branches
• Paying attention to burn ban restrictions and keep an eye on your burn pile.
Residents can find their area’s Fire Danger Rating Area online at https://fortress.wa.gov/dnr/protection/firedanger/ and burn restrictions at https://burnportal.dnr.wa.gov/.
Restrictions already in effect
Discharging fireworks, incendiary ammunition or exploding targets is illegal on public lands. Individuals who violate these restrictions will be responsible for the cost of fighting the fire.
Campfires are only allowed in designated campgrounds. Always be sure to check with the campground host or landowner before lighting any fire.
All outdoor burning was banned June 23 on all forestlands under DNR protection except for Island, San Juan, Snohomish, Skagit and Whatcom counties.
Fire danger rating level increased from low to moderate in Lewis and Grays Harbor counties, as well as in Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Island, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Mason, Pacific, Pierce, San Juan, Skagit, Skamania, Snohomish, Thurston, Wahkiakum and Whatcom counties.
In Highlands and Methow regions, rule burning (small debris disposal fires) is not allowed and campfires are not allowed except in approved designated campgrounds.
Fire danger increases from moderate to high in Chelan, Foothills, Highlands and Lower Yakima areas.
Fire danger increases from high to very high in the Lower Basin.
The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) will change to a Level 2 - Partial Hootowl, which means certain activities are limited between the hours of 8 p.m.and 1 p.m. in Zones 653, 656 and 658. More information on the IFPL system is available at http://www.dnr.wa.gov/ifpl.
Restrictions taking effect on Tuesday, June 29
Industrial Fire Precaution Levels (IFPL) will increase to a Level 2 in Zone 686. Level 2 (called Partial Hootowl) limits certain activities in the forest to between 8 p.m. and 1 p.m.; fire equipment and a fire watch are required.
