Video: Burn ban aimed at preventing more wildfires

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SEATTLE - Western Washington's hot, dry weather is prompting burn bans.

Starting Thursday, outdoor burn restrictions are in effect in King, Kitsap, Mason, Pierce, Kitsap and Island counties, as well as unincorporated areas of Snohomish and Skagit counties.

The restrictions prohibit burning forest debris and yard waste on private and state-owned land protected by the Department of Natural Resources.

"And absolutely no burn barrels," said Janet Pearce, DNR spokesperson. "That's totally illegal."

Campfires are allowed on private land if they meet certain criteria. They must grow no larger than three feet across, be built in a metal or concrete pit, be attended to at all times, and be located in a spot clear of vegetation. Those attending to the campfires must have immediate access to water or a shovel.

"We can't emphasize enough how important it is to follow this burn restriction," said Commissioner of Public Lands Doug Sutherland. "The high temperatures and dry conditions here in Washington are a recipe for a catastrophic wildfire."

Fire investigators want to prevent any more wildfires from sparking in Washington state. Sparks from a car's exhaust are to believed have started the Badger Mountain fire near East Wenatchee. 

AP

Recreationalists can build campfires, but they must meet certain criteria. They must grow no larger than 3 feet across and be attended to at all times.

The burn bans are in effect until further notice.

For more information:

King County: Call the Fire Marshal's Office at 206-296-6675 or 1-800-323-BURN.

Kitsap County: Call North Kitsap at 360-297-4888, Central Kitsap at 360-447-3555, South Kitsap at 360-871-2425, Bainbridge Island at 206-842-7686, or county-wide at 1-800-323-BURN

Mason County: Call the Fire Marshal's Information Line at 360-427-7799 or 1-800-323-BURN

Pierce County: Call the local fire district, the Fire Prevention Bureau at 253-798-7179, or 1-800-323-BURN.

Snohomish County: Call the Fire Marshal's Office at 425-388-3557.