Camping this weekend? DNR asks: Please don’t start a forest fire

Whether you’re camping or off-roading (or hiking and smoking?) this weekend, the Department of Natural Resources is asking politely: Please do not set state lands on fire.

How can you avoid being the 71st person to start a wildfire in Washington this year (actually, DNR says there have been “over 70 small wildfires across the state”)?

- If you’re using an off-road vehicle, make sure the catalytic converter is working properly.
- If you’re smoking something, dispose of it properly (do not throw burning material on the ground).
- Build campfires only in designated areas.
- No fireworks. It’s illegal.
- Doing some outdoor burning? Call 1-800-323-BURN or go here before you start the fire.

Not going anywhere this weekend? DNR suggests you survey your home or business to assess the “structural survivability.” That entails checking whether the building is made of fire resistant material, assessing the fire exposure (large, dry vegetation near or touching your home are a no-no), and access for firefighters.

Tags: wildfire prevention