Stage 2 burn ban issued in King County amid heat, dry conditions

The King County fire marshal issued a Stage 2 burn ban amid the hot weather and dry conditions.

The burn ban prohibits all outdoor recreational fires while outdoor cooking and heating appliances are restricted to approved manufactured gas and charcoal units, according to a release from county officials.

A Stage 1 burn ban was already in effect before this new issuance.

When the Stage 1 burn ban was issued, Fire Marshal Chris Ricketts said, “Extreme heat and especially dry conditions have increased the risk of wildfire dramatically. People in both rural and urban unincorporated areas need to use caution.”

Now that the new burn ban is in effect, any outdoor fires, such as a backyard fire pit or campfire using chopped firewood, are prohibited.

What is allowed in more detail:

• “Manufactured portable outdoor devices are allowed, including barbeques and patio warmers that are used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Approved fuel devices — including those that rely on charcoal, natural gas or propane gas — are also allowed. Ricketts asks residents to please use caution when disposing of charcoal remains.”

Those who live in areas under the ban with recreational fires going can be charged with, up to and including, a misdemeanor when ordered to put out a recreational fire.

And for those who must smoke, officials are asking you to use “extreme caution” with cigarette ashes and when putting a cigarette out.

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