The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) implemented a burn ban on lands it manages throughout the state at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 10, as hot, dry summer weather continues to increase wildfire danger statewide.
The order bans outdoor burning, campfires, the use of charcoal briquettes, and prescribed burns on all forest lands within DNR’s fire protection through Sept. 30. This date may be extended or shortened depending on fire conditions.
“The record-breaking temperatures we are seeing this week have left our state bone dry,” Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz said in a press release.
“I am asking everyone in Washington to do their part to protect our firefighters and our communities this summer. Please do not start a fire outside and stay alert when you are outdoors.”
Fire dangers are high across Washington state and hot, dry conditions are worsening the risk of continued spread and ignition, state officials said. This restriction, they noted, is a critical step to reduce potential wildfire ignition sources as fire dangers continue to stay elevated.
Residents who see smoke should call 911 to report the fire. For tips on how to stay safe during fire season, go to dnr.wa.gov/WildfirePrevention.
Wildfire statistics can be found at fireinfo.dnr.wa.gov.
ONP, ONF declare campfire bans
Because of rising temperatures and increasingly dry conditions, campfires were restricted to established fire rings in designated areas in the Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park, park and forest officials announced last week.
The fire restriction went into effect on July 13.
All backcountry and dispersed area campfires — including the use of charcoal grills or other equipment that creates ash — are not be allowed. Gas or propane camp stoves with a shut-off valve or lever that extinguishes the flame immediately are permitted in these areas but should be operated far from flammable vegetation and forest litter.
Extreme caution is urged when using any open flame,officials said.
In addition, campfires on the beaches of Olympic National Park will not be permitted under this restriction.
“Abnormally dry and drought like conditions have lingered over portions of the peninsula for the past several years, this is leading to live vegetation being in a state of stress and dead vegetation is quick to react to localized weather patterns; like the recent heat dome” said Jeff Bortner, Fire Management Officer for Olympic Interagency Fire Management.
”These changes line up to quick changes in fire danger. Places like the Quinault and Hoh, and coastal beaches are especially sensitive to prolonged dry periods and drought as they have not evolved to survive in a moisture deficit.”
