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 Ephrata--
With the temperatures rising so does the threat of
wildland fires. Recently the fire danger was
moved to "HIGH" and for good reason. With
higher temperatures and lower humidity there comes a
greater chance of fires igniting. In addition
you live an a unique part of Washington that
features light flashy fuels like sagebrush.
These fuels can ignite easily and can spread
rapidly. This year firefighters are asking the
public for help in preventing such fires. Each
year numerous wildland fires are started in and
around District 13 by human causes. Did you
know that you can be held civilly and criminal
liable for any damage to property or injury to
persons that happen as a result of a fire you
started? There are simple steps you can take
to help prevent wildland fires and to insure you and
others have a safe summer.
1. Always call
before you burn. Please notify the Multi
Agency Communication Center if you intended to burn.
Simply call 762-1160 and let them know you are going
to burn approved vegetation. In addition
if you loose control of your fire please call
immediately so keep a phone close by.
2. Only burn when
weather permits. When considering whether
to burn or not you should remember that wind is a
major force in the spread of fire. If it is a
windy day simply do not burn. In wind embers
can be spread a long distance from the fire and can
ignite other items. Also consider burning in
the morning when the temperature is lower and the
relative humidity is higher.
3. NEVER burn in a
burn barrel. Burn barrels have been
illegal in Washington since 2000. They foster
the leave it and forget it mentality. You
should always be in control of your fire when
burning so that you can take immediate action if
needed.
4. Only burn the
permitted amount of vegetation. Other then
large agricultural burning you are only allowed a 4'
X 4' X 3' pile of natural vegetation at a time.
5. Always have a
water source nearby. If you are burning
you must have a water source present so that you can
extinguish the fire if it becomes a threat.
Again, always call 9-1-1 if the fire can not be put
out immediately with your water source.
For more tips visit
our
burning tips section of the website. |
