While this year’s dry and warm summer has been record breaking, it has also created unprecedented
levels of outdoor fire danger. Currently, there are numerous wildfires burning throughout the state of Washington. A fairly common occurrence in the eastern half of our state, this year’s dry weather has also made “outdoor fires” a reality for the heavily populated Puget Sound Region. Between August 1 and September 16, 2012 TFD has responded to 197 grass/brush/tree and other outside type fires in our response area. TFD encourages everyone to remain diligent with fire safety and prevention efforts as the dry weather persists:
- If you smoke, always use ashtrays.
- Do not use weed burners or other open flame devices.
- Make sure you have a spark arrestor on tools (chain saw, stump grinder) or recreational vehicles (dirt bike, quad).
- Stay on the pavement - vehicle tail pipes get so hot the can easily start dry grass on fire.
- Remove all dead or overgrown vegetation surrounding your house.
- Have a family communication and escape plan with primary and secondary escape routes.
For detailed information regarding outdoor fires, wildfires and how to create "defensible space" around your house, visit
FEMA or
Ready.gov.
