Raised Fire Risk With Spring Weather

With the new warm spring weather over the weekend, there will be many outdoor gatherings, and many of these gatherings will involve fire of some sort. The sudden dry weather raises fire risk, along with the remnants of last season’s leaves. 

The DNR asks individuals to check information on fire permits to see if fires are allowed in your local area. The DNR also provided some tips for preventing wildfires, as 9 out of 10 wildfires are caused by people.

• Keep a water source nearby while having a fire
• Prevent sparks by not allowing trailer trains to drag when you’re on the road
• Do not park hot equipment on dry grass
• Contain your fire in a pit or ring and
• put it out thoroughly by dousing it with water, stirring the ashes, and dousing it again.
• Never leave hot coals unattended
• Never shoot fireworks into dry grass or woods.
• They also warn that if you are using a burn barrel for paper or yard debris, to keep a screen on top of it.

Check with your local fire department for fire permit registration.

Please take note it is illegal to burn plastic, hazardous materials, foam, or other household trash as they can release dangerous chemicals into the air. 

Check to see if it is safe to burn in your area here Michigan.gov/BurnPermit 

Keep updated on fire risks here: Michigan.gov/FireManagement.