VANCOUVER — Due to the extreme fire danger, recreational fires will be prohibited throughout unincorporated Clark County effective immediately.
This recreational fire restriction is in addition to the general outdoor burning prohibition that was implemented on July 15. This ban joins with the ban imposed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources which include campfires. According to Fire Marshal Donna Goddard, this is a necessary preventive measure to help avoid the risk of larger grass or brush fires as a result of escaped campfires. Due to current conditions along with the extended forecast, the ban goes into effect immediately and will remain in effect until further notice.
Creating a defensible space around a home helps prevent wildfires from spreading to a residence, or vice versa. Goddard recommends the following measures in both rural and urban areas:
- Remove fuel
- Within 3–5 feet of foundations, outbuildings, garages and sheds
- Within 10 feet of a house
- Under decks and porches
- From gutters, eaves, porches and decks
- Cut the lawn if it is brown. Dispose of debris and cuttings.
- Prune trees so the lowest branches are 6–10 feet above the ground.
- Landscape with native and flame-resistant plants.
Self-contained camp stoves, which are not banned, are a safe and easy alternative for outdoor cooking.
For more information, please contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 564.397.2186.
Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.
