Fire Danger Level Rising to High Across Douglas District Saturday

The fire danger level will increase to High across the Douglas Forest Protective Association district beginning Saturday as hotter and drier weather moves into the area.

The change takes effect at 12:01 a.m. on July 11 and applies to private, county, state and Bureau of Indian Affairs lands protected by DFPA.

Officials said the increase is prompted by forecasts calling for above-normal temperatures, lower humidity and less moisture recovery during the overnight hours.

Under the High fire danger restrictions, several outdoor activities will only be permitted before 10 a.m. or after 8 p.m. Those activities include:

• Using non-industrial power saws
• Cutting, grinding or welding metal
• Cutting, trimming or mowing dry or cured grass
• Operating power-driven machinery for non-industrial property improvements or development

Industrial Fire Precaution Levels will remain unchanged at IFPL Level 2 throughout the district.

Debris burning remains prohibited during fire season. Campfires are only allowed in designated locations, while fireworks, exploding targets, tracer ammunition and sky lanterns are prohibited.

Smoking is limited to enclosed vehicles on improved roads, boats on the water and other designated areas. Vehicles must remain on improved roads, and anyone traveling through protected lands should carry the required firefighting tools.

Charcoal and pellet barbecues may only be used at maintained residential properties where water or a fire extinguisher is readily available.

DFPA is asking residents and visitors to use extra caution as conditions become increasingly favorable for wildfires. Many fires are caused by human activity and can begin with a single spark from equipment, vehicles or improperly extinguished flames.

Additional information and current restrictions are available through DFPA’s website and social media pages or by calling the district office at 541-672-6507.