Because of atmospheric conditions of reduced moisture levels, low humidity and warmer weather, combined with the reduced availability of fire-fighting resources, the Clallam County burn ban is being modified to include all campgrounds within unincorporated Clallam County (county-controlled campgrounds are included in the burn ban).

This modification prohibits all outdoor burning. Outdoor burning includes campfires, bonfires, briquette barbecues, residential yard debris clean-up, trash disposal, land clearing, weed abatement and agricultural burning activity.

Propane/gas appliances are permitted provided the use is over a non-flammable surface and at least 5 feet from flammable vegetation. The exception to this modification is those campgrounds within the Olympic National Park.

The Clallam County Fire Marshal’s office works closely with local fire districts and local fire departments, and strongly urges all county residents and property owners to be attentive to the condition of their properties through proactive fire prevention measures.

Maintaining a 30-foot defensible space around structures will help aid firefighters by creating a zone of protection around your personal property.

Find more information concerning Defensible Space on the Clallam County website: http://www.clallam.net/Permits/burningrestrictions.html.

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission announced last week a statewide ban on campfires in all state parks and ocean beaches in the Seashore Conservation Area through Sept. 30, due to extreme heat and dry conditions. The ban is part of a state effort to prevent human-caused wildfires.