Burn ban expanded to include recreational fires

Recreational fires have been prohibited throughout unincorporated Clark County and the cities of La Center, Ridgefield and Woodland because of extreme fire danger.

The ban, which is in addition to the general outdoor burning ban implemented on June 25,  went into effect on Saturday, July 24, stated a news release from Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue.

“This is a proactive measure to limit the risk of fires spreading from escaped camp and recreational fires,” stated the release.

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources also imposed a ban on its lands.

“The extended hot and dry weather following an unusually dry spring has lowered fuel moistures (and) increased the risk of fires spreading quickly in grass, brush, trees and to nearby structures," said Division Chief Mike Jackson.

Since there is no precipitation in the forecast and temperatures are expected to continue in the 80s and 90s, the ban will remain in place until sufficient rainfall occurs to lower the fire risk. 

The fire department encourages residents to create a defensible space around their homes to prevent wildfires from spreading to a residence or vice versa.

The following measures are recommended in both rural and urban areas:

• Remove fuel within 3 to 5 feet of foundations, outbuildings, garages and sheds; within 10 feet of a house; under decks and porches; and from gutters, eaves, porches and decks.
• Cut the lawn if it’s brown and dispose of the debris and cuttings.
• Prune trees so the lowest branches are located 6 to 10 feet above the ground.
• Discard smoking materials or fire debris in metal containers away from structures. 
• Landscape with native and flame-resistant plants.

Self-contained camp stoves and barbecues, which are not included in the ban, are a safe alternative to fire pits for outdoor cooking, stated the release.