With fire danger increasing ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz has signed an order issuing a statewide burn ban on all forest lands under the Washington State Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) fire protection.
Effective tomorrow, July 2nd, the order bans outdoor burning, campfires, the use of charcoal briquettes and prescribed burns on all forest lands within DNR’s fire protection through September 30, 2021. This date may be extended or shortened depending on fire conditions.
This order supersedes all other burn bans currently in effect on forest lands within the state of Washington under the Department of Natural Resources’ fire protection.
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Click for more informationFire danger has increased following prolonged drought, a record-breaking heat wave and forecasted winds that can spread a wildfire quickly through the dry grasses and forests. Fireworks are expected to further increase that danger over the Fourth of July weekend.
“The record-breaking temperatures we saw last weekend have left our state bone dry,” said Franz, “and the risks from fireworks and other holiday activities make the situation even more precarious. 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 please do not set off your own fireworks this weekend.”
It is always illegal to light fireworks or use incendiary ammunition or exploding targets on DNR-protected lands.
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Click for more informationResidents who see smoke should call 911 to report the fire. For tips on how to stay safe during fire season, go to the DNR Wildfire Prevention page.
Wildfire statistics can be found on DNR’s Fire Dashboard.
The signed statewide burn ban order can be seen here.