Stopping wildfires before they start - KPTV - FOX 12

Stopping wildfires before they start

Wildfires have closed few outdoor recreation areas throughout Washington state.

As folks take advantage of late season recreational opportunities, the Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding everyone of a statewide burn ban.

While trying to cut down on human-caused wildfires, DNR issued a statewide burn ban on all DNR-protected lands from July 1 through Sept. 30, 2012.

The ban includes all forest lands in Washington except for federal lands, which have their own published restrictions.

Campgrounds may have additional burn restrictions in place.

Campers should checked with their campground host before starting a campfire.

Fire safety information

• Campfires are only authorized in approved camp grounds with approved fire rings. Never leave a campfire unattended, and be sure it is completely dead out and cold to the touch before leaving the camp site.
• Be sure recreational vehicles have operating spark arresters.
• Be aware that common recreational activities can cause fires, such as target shooting, cigarette butts and trailer chains dragging on concrete. 
• Do not park any vehicles in dry, grassy areas, as the heat from exhaust systems can ignite the dry grass.
• It is illegal to discharge fireworks on DNR-protected and public lands.

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