Due to July's persistent hot and dry weather, national forests across the Pacific Northwest have increased or implemented public use restrictions.
Through these public use restrictions as well as high to very high fire danger levels, the US Forest Service is urging the public to be vigilant in preventing human-caused wildfires while recreating outdoors.
Current public use restrictions can be found on national forest webpages or by checking at the local ranger district before recreating. Even if campfires are allowed, please consider whether having a fire is necessary.
Forest Service officials have provided a few tips to keep yourself, your family and communities safe as fire season ramps up in Oregon and Washington.
Stay vigilant if wildfires are burning in your area or near your community. Know that conditions can change quickly. Adhere to local fire restrictions. Sign up for emergency alerts with your local county. Become familiar with the three evacuation levels. Know where to find up-to-date evacuation information for your area. Make a plan to keep your family safe.
Even if some areas of the Pacific Northwest may experience cooler weather than normal, fire danger levels will remain high to very high because already dried fuels remain susceptible to ignition sources.
US Forest Service firefighters and aviation resources are ready to respond to growth on existing fires as well as engage in quick action on any new fire starts.
