Drop the wieners and marshmallows. Fires now banned on state lands

It’s going to be a summer without s’mores on state lands.

Outdoor fires were banned starting Thursday on the 13 million acres of forests and parks the state Department of Natural Resources administers.

More than 95 percent of the state is experiencing drought conditions and wildfires are burning in Washington and across the West.

Public Lands Commissioner Hilary Franz ordered the ban to reduce the impact on resources — both natural and the firefighting kind.

Included in the ban are burn piles, prescribed burns and even charcoal briquettes.

“I know this is an inconvenience, and I appreciate the public understanding that this is not a safe time for intentional burning within our forests,” Franz said.

Pierce County has had a burn ban in effect for unincorporated areas since July 12.

All is not lost for roasting wieners. Campfires are still allowed in some campgrounds, depending on who administers the property. Check before you light.

Updates on burn restrictions can be found at 800-323-BURN or at dnr.wa.gov/OutdoorBurning.

The burn ban is expected to last through Sept. 30, when wet weather returns.

This story was originally published August 2, 2018 at 9:46 AM.