Fire officials on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest have raised the fire danger rating from “high” to “very high,” a Thursday news release announced.
The shift reflects conditions where fires can start easily, spread rapidly and become more difficult for firefighters to control. Record low snowpack in Washington has contributed to current drought conditions, and multiple large fires continue to burn across the geographic region, according to the release.
The public is asked to do everything they can to avoid additional fire starts. Even small ignition sources, such as a dropped match, abandoned campfire or a dragging trailer chain, can lead to fast‑moving wildfires under these circumstances.
All campfires, charcoal or briquette fires, pellet fires and any other open fires are prohibited under a U.S. Forest Service order.
Visitors to national forest lands are urged to take the following precautions:
• Follow all current fire restrictions and closures.
• Avoid activities that can create sparks, including smoking near vegetation, driving over tall grass or dragging trailer chains.
• Carry a shovel, water and a fire extinguisher when traveling in forested areas.
• Report any wildfires by calling 911.
Firefighters continue patrolling the forest and locating holdover fire starts from last week’s lightning storm. Thanks to quick responses, most of the fires have remained small and were contained within a few days, according to the statement. The largest active fire on the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, the Skyo Fire, continues to burn just west of Packwood.
A type three incident management team is managing the fire.
For fire updates and to view current public use restrictions, visit https://tinyurl.com/425bkvzy or the Gifford Pinchot Facebook page @GiffordPinchot.
