Countywide burn ban in effect through September

By REPORTER STAFF
Mercer Island Reporter Staff
August 9, 2011 · 10:30 AM

  • 0
  • Print Story
  • Email Author
  • Letter/Editor

A countywide fire safety burn ban has been declared, prompted by ground conditions and forecasts calling for continued dry weather.

This Phase 1 burn ban applies to all outdoor burning except for small recreational fires in established fire pits at approved camp grounds or private property with the owner’s permission. These fires must:

• Be built in a metal or concrete fire pit, such as those typically found in designated campgrounds;

• Grow no larger than three feet across;

• Be located in a clear spot free from any vegetation for at least 10 feet in a horizontal direction, including a 20-foot vertical clearance from overhanging branches; and

• Be attended at all times by an alert individual with immediate access to a shovel and either five gallons of water or a connected and charged water hose.

The use of gas and propane self-contained stoves and barbecues will continue to be allowed under the ban.

For more information on local fire restrictions, the public can call 1-800-323-BURN or visit the King County Fire Marshal Services Web site at: www.kingcounty.gov/property/FireMarshal/BurnBanInfo.aspx.

Contact Mercer Island Reporter Staff Reporter Staff at editor@mi-reporter.com.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.

So keep your comments:

  • Civil
  • Smart
  • On-topic
  • Free of profanity

We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters. We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please refer to our Terms of Use for full detail on participating on our site.

blog comments powered by Disqus