This recreational fire restriction is in addition to the general outdoor burning prohibition that was implemented on July 5

VANCOUVER – Due to the extreme fire danger, recreational fires will be prohibited throughout unincorporated Clark County effective immediately. 

This recreational fire restriction is in addition to the general outdoor burning prohibition that was implemented on July 5. According to interim Fire Marshal Donna Goddard this is a preventive measure to help avoid the risk of more or larger grass or brush fires as a result of escaped campfires. Looking at current conditions along with the extended forecast, the ban goes into effect immediately and will remain in effect until further notice.    

This ban joins with the ban imposed today, July 10, by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. The state is prohibiting all outdoor burning, the use of charcoal briquettes in all state forests, parks and lands protected by DNR firefighters.  

Creating a defensible space around a home helps prevent wildfires from spreading to a residence, or vice versa. Goddard recommends the following measures in both rural and urban areas:

• Remove fuel
  • Within 3-5 feet of foundations, outbuildings, garages and sheds
  • Within 10 feet of a house
  • Under decks and porches
  • From gutters, eaves, porches and decks
• Cut the lawn if it is brown. Dispose of debris and cuttings.
• Prune trees so the lowest branches are 6-10 feet above the ground.
• Landscape with native and flame-resistant plants.

Self-contained camp stoves, which are not banned, are a safe and easy alternative for outdoor cooking.

Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.