Fire marshals for Clark County and Vancouver lifted burn bans Thursday that were put in place earlier in September.
Clark County Interim Fire Marshal Dan Young announced Wednesday that the countywide ban on recreational and land-clearing fires would be lifted at midnight Wednesday. Vancouver Fire Marshal Heidi Scarpelli said the recreational burn ban within the city limits was lifted as of 12:01 a.m. Thursday due to changing weather conditions.
Battle Ground Fire Marshal Chris Drone announced the recreational burn ban in that city was also lifted Thursday.
“The recent rainfall and a forecast calling for cooler temperatures has lowered fire danger levels. Regardless of weather conditions, there is always the potential for fires to get out of control. One should exercise caution with any outdoor burning by observing regulations and requirements, remaining attentive, and following safety tips,” Drone said.
Recreational fires, campfires and fires in outdoor fireplaces or chimney-type devices are now allowed. All outdoor burning of things like brush, vegetation and garbage is still prohibited within the city of Vancouver.
In the county, residents must follow all burning regulations and obtain permits. Recreational campfires are allowed if built in approved fire pits in designated campgrounds, such as those found in local, county and state parks. On private land, recreational fires must be built according to the following regulations:
- Fires must be built in a metal, stone or masonry-lined pit such as those seen in approved campgrounds or in portable units sold in home and garden stores. Fires must not exceed 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet in height.
- Fires must be watched over at all times by someone at least 16 years old who has the ability to extinguish the fire using a shovel, 5 gallons of water or a connected and charged water hose.
- Completely extinguish recreational fires by pouring water or moist soil on them and stirring with a shovel until all parts are cool to the touch.
- Young also reminded residents that the use of burn barrels is illegal.
The burn bans originally took effect on Sept. 8 due to very dry and windy weather that sparked fires and spread hazardous smoke through the region.
Cooler, wetter weather has diminished the conditions that fueled the intense fire season.
