Now we’re cooking with gas ... and only gas. DNR bans campfires in southern Puget Sound
Increasing fire danger in the southern Puget Sound and nearby regions has prompted a burn ban on Department of Natural Resources land, the agency announced Friday.
Restrictions on campfires, recreational fires, permit burning and other types of fires are now in effect, the DNR said in a statement.
The good news: You can still cook with gas.
Burn restrictions are now in effect on DNR-protected land in part or all of Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Kitsap, King, Mason, Pierce and Thurston counties.
“These decisions are never made lightly, but as climbing temperatures continue to dry out fuels and critical fire weather is expected across the state this weekend, it’s important to mitigate activity that could generate an ignition,” the DNR said in a statement.
The ban includes: campfires, recreational fires, permit burning and barbecues fueled by charcoal and briquettes.
Campers can still use cooking stoves and barbecues that are fueled by propane or gas provided the gas canisters have a shutoff valve.
Forest Service lands
Fire restrictions have been in place since early July in Olympic National Forest and Olympic National Park. Campfires are only allowed in those areas if they are in established fire rings located in designated areas.
Restrictions increase in the backcountry, the U.S. Forest Service said.
“All backcountry and dispersed area campfires will not be allowed, including the use of charcoal grills or other equipment that creates ash,” the USFS states on its website.
Gas or propane camp stoves with shut-off valves are permitted in the backcountry, but the USFS advises to operate them only in areas away from dry vegetation.
Campfires on Olympic National Park beaches are not permitted.
Other restrictions
Counties and fire districts have their own burn restrictions. Fire agencies say it’s a good idea to check with them before starting outdoor fires.
Contact the state Department of Ecology or your local clean air authority to check for air quality burn restrictions.
