Hot, dry, and no rain in the forecast. Those are the conditions many Washington firefighters have dealt with while responding to hundreds of wildfires this year.
The Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is sharing valuable information everyone can use to help prevent wildfires this season.
First, do not to park any vehicles in dry or grassy areas. The DNR says the heat from the vehicle’s exhaust can ignite the dry grass and the fire can quickly grow out of control.
Another important tip is to check to see if your vehicle is dragging any chains on the road. Sparks from dragging chains can start brush fires. If you own a recreational vehicle, be sure you have working spark arrestors.
Before starting a campfire, check to see if your county is under a burn ban. Embers from campfires can float away from the area and spark a wildfire if the conditions are dry.
If you are going to build a fire be safe and only make them in approved fire pits. You should keep plenty of water and a shovel nearby in case the fire gets out of hand.
During dry conditions, homeowners should stay away from using metal weed whacker lines as sparks could ignite dry leaves. Nylon or plastic lines can be used instead of metal.