Experts say Michigan’s greatest fire risk is usually in the spring, but downed wood from the March ice storm in northern Michigan forests and a forecast string of dry days mean people need to be careful with fire through the fall.
Resource protection manager for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Jeff Vasher, says in a news release, quote, “We had a dry fall last year and many fire runs,” adding “We want to remind people to be careful and always keep fire safety in mind when they are burning, riding off-road vehicles or enjoying other outdoor activities.”
The DNR say people are responsible for starting nine out of 10 wildfires, and nearly all of these could have been prevented.
If you do need to burn, the DNR offers tips such as making sure burn permits are being issued as well as if weather conditions allow for safe burning. Build your campfire in a metal ring or pit and never leave it unattended.
More information can be found on the DNR’s safety webpage www.michigan.gov/dnr
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