Campfires banned on DNR-protected lands in eastern Washington

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Beginning Friday, Aug. 17, campfires are banned on all lands east of the Cascades that are protected from wildfire by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

“We’ve had 47 wildfires started by campfires this year,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. “With nine active large wildfires in eastern Washington and a long season still ahead of us, it’s imperative that we’re doing all we can to minimize additional risk.”

While some campgrounds in western Washington still allow campfires in approved pits, the DNR reminds campers to always check with local authorities before lighting any fire.

As of Aug. 16, the DNR has responded to more than 1,050 wildfires that have burned more than 280,000 acres and resulted in the deployment of 3,688 state, federal and local firefighters statewide.

Fire danger in the state of Washington remains high or extreme, with temperatures forecast to rise by the end of the week.

For daily updates on the burn restrictions put in place by the DNR click here or call 1-800-323-BURN.

You can also follow the Department of Natural Resources on Twitter.

More news from KIRO 7

• Motorcyclist describes self-defense in I-5 road rage attack
• When will smoke clear in Seattle? KIRO 7 PinPoint Meteorologist weighs in
• Unsafe amounts of weed killer found in some popular breakfast foods, report finds
• Mom killed shielding children from car on 1st day of school
• Do you have an investigative story tip? Send us an email at investigate@kiro7.com

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE NEWS APP

Cox Media Group