Spokane, WA – Bureau of Land Management (BLM) fire management officials are encouraging visitors to public lands across the state of Washington to be especially careful to avoid starting a wildfire. Taking appropriate steps toward preventing wildfires saves lives, property, and our treasured natural resources in Washington state.
Visitors who enjoy target shooting or other recreation activities on BLM-administered lands in Washington state need to be aware of the BLM’s annual fire restriction order that went into effective on May 23. The annual order seeks to minimize the occurrence of human-caused fires by banning the use of fireworks, exploding targets or metallic targets, steel component ammunition (core or jacket), tracer or incendiary devices and sky lanterns on public lands.
While BLM fire managers for the Spokane District have not issued formal regulations restricting campfires at this time, fire managers have seen an increase in the number of human-caused fires over the past weeks, indicating very dry conditions. Visitors are urged to be extra cautious when recreating over the Fourth of July holiday. Please ensure campfires are built on bare soil, away from other potentially flammable materials and are completely out and cold before leaving the campsite. In addition, avoid having a campfire on windy days to further reduce the possibility of sparks traveling and igniting a wildfire. For tips on fire prevention please visit the National Interagency Fire Center’s wildfire prevention library: https://bit.ly/3NrU4NX
“While we have determined that current conditions do not warrant restricting campfires at this time, we are strongly encouraging everyone to be extra cautious with fire over the Fourth of July holiday,” said Spokane District Manager Kurt Pindel. “Paying extra attention while out enjoying your public lands will allow everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday.”
Fire management officials will continue to monitor moisture content levels in flammable materials as temperatures increase into the next week and if conditions warrant, could impose future campfire or shooting restrictions.
Penalties for violating the BLM’s annual fire order, or being the responsible party for starting a wildfire, are costly and significant. Please don’t ruin your holiday weekend outing!
For specific information regarding the BLM’s 2023 annual fire order and restrictions in Washington, as well as penalties and fines associated with starting wildfire, visit: https://on.doi.gov/3XBXSRt
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