(WWJ) - State officials are begging Michiganders to check weather conditions prior to lighting fires in northern Michigan as extreme risk for wildfires climbs over the weekend.
Michigan's Department of Natural Resources released a statement on Friday, warning residents that dry, hot conditions in parts of lower northern Michigan and into the Upper Peninsula are creating extreme or very high fire risks.
“First and foremost, check to make sure that weather conditions are favorable before attempting to burn yard debris,” said Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “Debris burning that escapes is the top cause of wildfires in Michigan.”
The DNR said windy conditions only elevate fire hazards as embers swept up by gusts of wind can "travel far and fast, turning a small fire into a large one."
Rogers warned that while some parts in the Lower Peninsula are deceiving; areas may look green and lush, when they are actually in the process of drying out.
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Residents who are looking to burn yard debris are encouraged to check Michigan.gov/BurnPermit to check if weather conditions are favorable near at their location.
Officials remind Michiganders to make sure campfires and bonfires are well contained in a pit or ring with the ashes thoroughly put out when unable to be supervised. The DNR recommended dousing the fire in water, stirring the ashes and dumping more water on top to make sure embers cannot reignite or get blown away in the wind.
The DNR released a list of safety tips residents can follow:
• Never leave any fire unattended.
• Keep a hose or other water source nearby.
• Prevent sparks. Keep trailer chains from dragging and don’t park hot equipment on dry grass.
• Do not shoot fireworks into the woods or into dry grass or shrubs.
• Get more fire safety tips at Michigan.gov/FireManagement.
• It’s illegal to burn plastic, hazardous materials, foam or other household trash. This can release dangerous chemicals into the air.
• Use a burn barrel with a screen on top to burn paper, leaves and natural materials.
Officials said wildland firefighters in Michigan have fought more than 160 fires spanning almost 3,000 acres in 2022.
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