Fire Risk High this Season

This year has the potential to be a big wildfire season, according to an article in last week's Seattle Times. A wet spring followed by a very dry June could combine to increase fuels and fire risk across the state. The article notes that even in the usually damp and boggy western Olympics, conditions are crispy-dry.

A 123-acre fire is currently burning near Panther Creek in North Cascades National Park. Photo courtesy InciWeb.

One lightning-caused fire is currently buring at Panther Creek in North Cascades National Park. It's relatively small (123 acres) and it's being allowed to burn naturally. The fire caused the closure of the Panther Creek Trail, from the trailhead at Hwy 20 to Fourth of July Pass.

Because of the bone dry conditions, it's important to keep a close watch on all campfires, whether you're car camping or in the backcountry. Many wilderness areas ban fires above certain elevations, and this may be a good time to consider skipping the roaring campfire altogether. If you choose to have a campfire, the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest recommends a few precautions:

• Use an existing fire ring or construct a fire ring out of rocks.
• Clear all vegetation away from the ring and don’t build a campfire underneath low hanging tree branches.
• Keep water and a shovel nearby.
• When you put your campfire out:
  
• Drown it with water.
• Stir the embers after they are covered with water and make sure everything is wet.
• Feel the coals and embers with your hands. They should be cool to the touch.
• When you think you are done, take an extra minute and add more water.

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