WANAPUM VILLAGE – A fire broke out Wednesday evening almost due east of the Wanapum Village between Royal City and George, according to the Washington Department of Natural Resources. It was contained at about 60 acres Thursday afternoon. 

“It does appear to be fully contained and stopped at 60 acres and there were no structures lost,” said DNR Communications Manager Thomas Kyle-Milward Thursday evening.  

Kyle-Milward said DNR is hoping people are aware of the increasing fire hazards as Washingtonians get ready to observe Memorial Day with family cookouts and similar events. Flash fuels – those that burn easily like grasses and shrubs – will begin to dry out soon as temperatures increase and people need to be aware of that risk and take appropriate precautions to ensure fires are kept contained in fire pits. 

“Let’s be cognizant of the fact that flashy fuels are starting to dry out, making any accidental human-caused ignitions more likely to result in something a little bit more serious than it could be otherwise,” he said. “And so, we’re asking for Washingtonians to be careful when they recreate; be careful when they’re doing any yardwork or land management of any type on their property.”  

Area first responders have encouraged residents to ensure they have something nearby to extinguish any fires they may use, even if it may seem low risk.  

While Kyle-Milward said he did not have a full list of assets that responded to the fire available, Grant County Fire District 8 firefighting apparatus – what firefighters refer to their firetrucks as – could be seen responding to the blaze Thursday morning.  

Kyle-Milward said DNR has seen increasing issues with debris and trash burns and it is especially important to be mindful when managing such fires. Area residents should be aware of any burn restrictions and permit requirements and follow them to the letter.  

“So far in 2025, DNR has responded to roughly 190 ignitions so far this season, and of that 190 ignitions, more than 45% of them have been from escaped slash pile burns or debris burns of other varieties, so it’s that time of year where we need to be careful. We need to be responsible, and let’s stay safe out there. 

State Fire Marshal Safety Tips: 

• Check for current burn bans before engaging in any open flame activity. 
• Clean your grill thoroughly before use to prevent grease fires. 
• Keep all flammable materials at least 3 feet away from grills and heat sources. 
• Position fire pits at least 10 feet from homes, decks, and other combustible structures. 
• Place campfires at least 25 feet away from tents, vegetation, or anything that can catch fire. 
• Never leave a fire unattended under any circumstances. 
• Keep a water source or fire extinguisher nearby and ready for immediate use. 
• Fully extinguish all fires before leaving the area—douse with water and stir until cool. 
• Check weather conditions before igniting any fire, especially during windy or dry periods. 
• Have an alternative plan in case fire restrictions or weather conditions make burning unsafe. 

    A Grant County Fire District 8 truck maneuvers onto a small access road as crews work to fight a fire almost due east of Wanapum Dam Thursday morning. Firefighters had the blaze under control by Thursday afternoon.