You can help protect Washington’s wild places by practicing fire safety whether at home or in the outdoors. This summer’s record-breaking heat has led to dry conditions leading to Governor Jay Inslee announcing a statewide wildfire state of emergency. 

These tips can help prevent wildfires, which endanger communities, homes, wilderness, and other natural resources:

 

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Are you unsure of the status of a burn ban where you live or where you are recreating? Be sure to check with the Washington Department of Ecology and your local municipality for current restrictions.

 

As of July 2, 2021, Washington State Parks has implemented a ban on campfires and charcoal use until further notice. Read the news release here. Remember – fireworks are always banned on most public lands.

 

Homeowners can practice wildfire preparedness. Learn about creating a defensible space and how fire behaves by reading the Living with Fire Guide. More wildfire preparedness resources can be found on the Washington Department of Natural Resource’s website here.

 

For more tips on how to recreate responsibly during fire season visit https://www.recreateresponsibly.org/wildfire-resources