Due to extensive wildland fires

EPHRATA - A countywide burn ban is in effect for Grant County until further notice.

The burn ban was initiated Monday by the Grant County Board of Commissioners and the Grant County Fire Marshall's Office due to several large wildland fires occurring over the past few weeks.

"This is an emergency action based on a high fire danger in the Grant County area due to a lack of precipitation for an extended period of time," according to the Grant County Department of Building/Fire Marshal.

According to the department, agricultural burning is acceptable if permitted by the Department of Ecology.

Campground fires used in approved devices are authorized if allowed by the state or federal campground. Private campsites and home fire pits are not allowed.

Events using fire for cooking are required to be approved in advance.

Gas barbecue grills and charcoal briquette fires are allowed if used safely and away from other combustibles.

Fore more information contact the Fire Marshal's Office at 509-754-2011, ext. 344 or the Commissioner's Office at ext. 428.