DNR reminds of high wildfire risk; provides preventative tips

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UPPER MICHIGAN. (WLUC) - While the wildfires in the U.P. are waning, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources wants to remind people that the fire risk remains high.

“If you’re at deer camp for archery season, camping, riding ORVs or working outdoors, be aware of the fire danger,” said Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, in a Thursday afternoon press release. “It’s warmer than normal and fallen leaves and dry grasses increase the risk of a spark from equipment or an ember from a campfire igniting a wildfire.”

DNR firefighters have been working to contain three major wildfires for the past two weeks. The Ridge Fire, Craig Lake Fire and the Black River Fire total nearly 1,400 acres and are each at least 50% contained as of Wednesday evening.

To prevent further unwanted wildfires, the release reminds you to always check for a permit before burning to make sure the weather conditions allow for a safe fire.

Be sure to call 911 immediately if a backyard fire gets out of hand, keep a water source nearby when burning, keep trailer chains from dragging while you’re on the road, don’t park hot equipment on dry grass, contain your fire in a pit or metal ring and make sure you put it out thoroughly, and finally, never leave any fire or hot coals unattended.

Find more tips at Michigan.gov/FireManagement.

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