April O'Neil / news@WHMI.com

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources says that fire danger is high across Lower Peninsula, and to be careful.

Warm temperatures, winds, and winter buildup of dry grasses and leaves have pushed fire danger to very high levels this week.

“People need to be careful when doing any outdoor activity that could spark a wildfire,” said Don Klingler, Michigan Department of Natural Resources resource manager for the southern Lower Peninsula. “These fuels can ignite very easily.”

Nine out of 10 wildfires are caused by people, and yard debris burning is the top cause of wildfires in Michigan.
Burn permits will not be issued for the next few days, Klingler said.

The DNR advises residents to always check Michigan.gov/BurnPermit before you start your fire to make sure weather conditions allow for safe burning.

Fire danger goes up when weather is hot and dry and increases even more when it’s windy. Windborne embers can travel far and fast, turning a small fire into a large one. Lightning strikes are also an issue if stormy weather is predicted.

Due to the increased fire danger, the DNR has suspended most prescribed burns over the next few days.

When you’re working with fire or equipment outdoors, the DNR says that fires can take off very fast and that the remains of a fire smolder for some time.




Some fire safety tips from the DNR-

Contain your campfire or bonfire in a pit or ring and make sure you put it out thoroughly before leaving for the night. Douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and douse again.

Never leave any fire — including hot coals — unattended.

Keep a hose or other water source nearby when burning.

Prevent sparks. Keep trailer chains from dragging when you’re on the road; don’t park hot equipment on dry grass.

Never shoot fireworks into the woods, dry grass or shrubs.

It’s illegal to burn plastic, hazardous materials, foam or other household trash. This can release dangerous chemicals into the air.

You can use a burn barrel with a screen on top to burn paper, leaves and natural materials.

DNR wildland firefighters have a goal of keeping as many wildfires fires as possible under 10 acres in size.

Get more fire tips and learn more about the DNR’s fire programs at the provided link.