Why northern Michigan is at risk for wildfires right now — and fire safety tips

Why northern Michigan is at risk for wildfires right now -- and fire safety tips

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The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reported elevated fire danger across Michigan, particularly in the northern Lower Peninsula, following dry conditions, wind, and downed trees and branches.
“Even with the heavy rains this spring, recent drier weather in the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Michigan means that last year’s grasses and leaves are becoming dry and will readily burn,” said Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
“In the ice storm area from last spring, the downed wood has been on the ground for a year, is starting to dry out, and can contribute to much hotter and more dangerous conditions if a fire gets started,” Rogers said. “While the temperatures have dropped, we are expecting to see elevated fire danger continue as we get closer to the weekend.”
According to the Michigan DNR, nine out of 10 wildfires are caused by human activity, such as burning yard waste debris, leaving campfires unattended, using power equipment or off-road cars in dry conditions, or dragging trailer chains.

“There is fire danger associated with a lot of our favorite outdoor activities,” Rogers said. “We want people to enjoy the outdoors, but we’re asking everyone to be especially aware this season because the downed wood adds greater risk and volatility.”
Michigan DNR said vegetation on the ground can still be dry from winter, even if the landscape looks green.
Check the open burning status on Michigan’s website before starting a fire to make sure weather conditions are safe enough. In southern Lower Peninsula communities, consult local fire authorities. If a backyard fire gets away from you, call 911 immediately, the DNR said. Do not try to put it out yourself before calling the authorities.
Here are some fire safety tips from the Michigan DNR:
Keep a hose or other water source nearby when burning.

Prevent sparks. Keep trailer chains from dragging when you’re on the road and don’t park hot equipment on dry grass.

Contain your campfire or bonfire in a pit or ring and make sure you put it out thoroughly before leaving. Douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and douse again.

Never leave any fire — including hot coals — unattended.

Never shoot fireworks into the woods, dry grass or shrubs.

Remember it is 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 other natural materials.

More fire safety information can be found here.