"Every year, we face increased fire danger during the summer months. The burn ban is not just a rule; it’s a vital step in protecting our homes, farmland, and natural landscapes from devastating wildfires. We’re asking everyone to be vigilant and do their part." 

— Grant County Fire District 3 Chief David Durfee 

MOSES LAKE — As temperatures rise and vegetation dries out, Grant County is about to start its annual burn ban beginning June 1, a measure designed to minimize the risk of wildfires during the summer months. The ban will continue until Sept. 30, encompassing all unincorporated areas of the county.

According to the National Interagency Fire Center, more than 85% of wildfires in the United States are caused by human activity, highlighting the significance of preventative measures.

This year, local officials are particularly concerned about the forecasted increase in wildfire activity due to hotter and drier weather conditions.

“Every year, we face increased fire danger during the summer months,” said Grant County Fire District 3 Chief David Durfee. “The burn ban is not just a rule; it’s a vital step in protecting our homes, farmland and natural landscapes from devastating wildfires. We’re asking everyone to be vigilant and do their part.”

The burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning of natural vegetation, including yard waste, debris piles, and the use of burn barrels. Additionally, it forbids the combustion of prohibited materials such as garbage, treated wood, or construction debris. Residents caught violating these regulations may face significant fines and other repercussions.

However, recreational fires in approved fire pits or rings are still permitted, provided they are no larger than three feet in diameter and located at least 25 feet from any structure.

Fire pits must also be attended at all times, with adequate water or extinguishing tools readily available. Gas and propane appliances, including barbecues, may continue to be used but must be operated safely.

“The burn ban is not just punitive; it focuses on proactive measures,” said Mike Ganz, Interim Fire Administrator for the Moses Lake Fire Department. “When people don’t burn, we don’t have any problems. Typically, the most common challenges we face are uncontrolled burns that another individual started.”

Grant County Fire District 13, according to a statement from the department, responded to two fires this Sunday that started as controlled burns but got out of hand, quickly threatening property and buildings.

To ensure safe burning practices, residents are advised to have a charged water source ready on-site and to keep combustible materials far from any active burn. Durfee emphasized the importance of monitoring weather conditions when planning burns.

“If it’s windy, don’t burn,” he said. “It is very easy for fire to spread to adjacent vegetation and (fires) will ‘run’ in the wind. This story is predictable.”

Failing to act quickly can exacerbate fire situations.

“If your fire becomes uncontrolled, don’t delay in calling 911,” Durfee said. “This may be the difference between preventable damage and extensive loss.”

As the community prepares for what experts predict to be an above-normal wildfire season, both officials and fire departments are calling for public cooperation.

Residents are encouraged to create defensible space around their properties, especially in areas where urban development interfaces with wilderness.

Additionally, violators of the burn ban can face fines. The first offense is $150; the second offense is $300, and the third subsequent offense is $500.

“We’ve seen increased fires and large incidents in prior years,” Durfee said. “This helps mitigate some of the damage we see.”

For a comprehensive overview of the burning regulations and updates about the burn ban, residents can visit bit.ly/GrantCoBurnBan for more information.

In preparation for the upcoming season, residents are encouraged to take proactive steps to safeguard their homes and community.

“Community cooperation is crucial in times like these,” said Ganz. “We have to work together to avoid tragedies that can arise from neglecting these essential fire safety practices.”

    COURTESY GRAPHIC/NATIONAL INTERAGENCY FIRE CENTER