(WWJ) If you go up North this weekend, think twice before lighting a fire.
Due to high temperatures and less rainfall, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking you to take extra care to prevent wildfires when working or playing outside as fire danger is "very high" in Northern Michigan this weekend.
"With conditions this dry, a lot of different things can cause fires," Jeff Vasher, a fire specialist with the DNR said. "A spark from a campfire can do it. Heat from an ORV or equipment can do it. A chain dragging from a trailer can do it or a downed powerline."
Burn permits will not be issued in many areas this weekend due to dry conditions. To find out if your area is impacted, click here.
"Even if grass is green, it can still be dry and spread fire," Vasher said. Stands of pine trees can also be a fire culprit, according to the DNR.
The Michigan DNR told WWJ it's responded to fires ranging from a few acres to a few hundred acres, all within the past week. They said people are responsible for about 90% of wildfires in the state.
Since the 2021 season began, the Michigan DNR said it's been called to more than 200 wildland fires that have burned over 2,000 acres across the state.
The DNR listed the following fire safety tips:
"-Campfires can smolder for hours through the night, so always make sure fires are out before you turn in. To make sure the fire is completely extinguished, drown it with water, stir it and carefully feel to make sure it is no longer emitting heat.
-Always keep a water source and a shovel nearby whenever the fire is burning. Keep campfires within a ring 3 feet or less in diameter. If a fire does get out of hand, call 911 immediately.
-Fireworks are fun but can inadvertently set off a blaze. Do not shoot fireworks into the woods or into dry grass. When you are using fireworks in the yard, soak the grass in the area with a hose and keep the hose handy. Put used sparklers into a bucket of water, as wires can stay hot.
-When using ORVs or outdoor equipment, take steps to minimize sparks and keep hot equipment away from dry grass or brush. Ride ORVs only on trails to avoid starting a grass fire."
