OLYMPIA – Hot and dry conditions make the potential for wildfire extremely high over the next several days on both sides of the Cascade Mountains.

“The next three days are going to be very dangerous in terms of the potential for wildfire. That is true in Western Washington as well as Eastern Washington. It is everyone’s responsibility to be safe and not take any risks,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark. “As the Taylor Bridge Fire demonstrates, the risk and consequences of catastrophic wildfire is extreme. We have hundreds of firefighters fighting two major wildfires in Washington and resources are stretched thin by fires across the West. Now is the time to be ever-vigilant.”

Wildfires are often started by lighting but many fires are caused by people. Some of the most destructive fire threats to our state’s wildlands and homes in rural areas can be traced to three sources: carelessly tended campfires, indefensible home sites, and sparks caused by equipment or vehicles. This weekend brings a significant risk of lightning-caused wildfire.

Statewide burn ban
In an effort to reduce human-caused wildfires, DNR issued a statewide burn ban on all DNR-protected lands, effective July 1, 2012, through September 30, 2012. The ban includes all forestlands in Washington except for federal lands. Campgrounds may have additional burn restrictions in place. Campers should check with their campground host before starting a campfire.

Fire safety information
• Never leave a campfire unattended, and be sure it is completely out before leaving the area.
• Be sure recreational vehicles have operating spark arresters.
• Do not park any vehicles in dry, grassy areas as the heat from exhaust systems can ignite the dry grass.
• It is illegal to discharge fireworks on DNR-protected and public lands.

For tips on protecting your home and family from wildfire, visit www.firewise.org

Stay connected during wildfire season
• DNR’s Fire Twitter: http://twitter.com/waDNR_fire 
• DNR Fire Update: http://www.dnr.wa.gov/Publications/rp_fire_currentfireinfodailyupdates.pdf 
• Incident Information System (InciWeb): http://www.inciweb.org/state/49

 Media Contact: Bryan Flint, Communications and Outreach Director, 360-902-1023, bryan.flint@dnr.wa.gov