Michigan fire weather danger expected to be high this weekend
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is encouraging the public to make fire safety a priority this weekend.
Fire weather danger is expected to be high Saturday and Sunday because of increased winds and low humidity.
The National Weather Service issued a fire weather warning for Friday July, 6, in northern parts of the Lower Peninsula. The warning is expected to continue through the weekend.
“It doesn’t take much to start a wildfire,” said DNR fire prevention specialist Paul Rogers. “Hot embers buried in ashes can flame up days after a campfire has been put ‘out.’ Even small fireworks like sparklers are hot enough to spark a fire if they’re not disposed of properly.”
If you're planning on having a fire the DNR wants you to keep this advice in mind:
- Keep the fire small (no larger than 3x3)
- Use a fire ring, or build your fire on mineral soil
- Keep a shovel, metal bucket, and water source close by
- Use water to put out the fire, stir the ashes, and use more water
- Keep the fire at least 10 feet away from logs, stumps, or debris. Make sure branches from trees aren't hanging over the fire.
- If you plan to burn yard debris, check for burn permits in your area
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