The City of Battle Ground suspended the burn ban, effective Tuesday, Sept. 17.
The total burn ban, originally declared on July 11, restricted all outdoor burning including the use of recreational burning including campfires, fires in outdoor fireplaces and chimney-type devices, as well as outdoor cooking with charcoal and other solid material, according to a news release.
Fire Marshal Chris Drone announced the risk of wildfire danger has dropped within the city and the surrounding areas because of the recent rainfall and cooler temperatures in the forecast ahead.
According to the release, fires still have the potential to grow out of control, so residents are advised to be cautious when burning outdoors, obey all fire regulations, and to follow simple safety tips:
• Recreational fires shall not be more than 3 feet wide or exceed 2 feet tall and remain a minimum distance of 25 feet away from structures or combustible materials.
• Only firewood or charcoal may be used in a recreational fire.
• Burning of trash is prohibited.
• Ensure that a mesh screen is in place to prevent ash and/or embers from escaping.
• Keep a bucket of water or a charged garden hose nearby and ready.
• The use of burn barrels is strictly prohibited.
• Portable outdoor fireplaces are required to be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Residential burning and land clearing burning of vegetation, yard debris or branches is prohibited within the Battle Ground city limits.
Residents are also advised to check furnaces, stoves and chimneys to ensure they are clear and clean for safe use as the temperatures grow cooler. Additional tips for maintaining a fire-safe home this fall and winter are available on the city’s website at cityofbg.org/heating-fire-safety.
