June 6, 2024 3:40 a.m.

As the area transitions into warmer weather and prepares for the upcoming fire season, staff with the Douglas Forest Protective Association is urging the public to take caution when burning yard debris.

Public Information Officer Rachael Pope said creating defensible space and mitigating fuels is always promoted as a necessary fire prevention tool. Pope said with the increasing temperatures and the drying of fine fuels, such as grass, wildfire danger levels are increasing, and precautions should be taken.

The DFPA release said safer methods of clearing fuel from yards, such as chipping, composting, or hauling debris to a recycling center are a great alternative to burning. However, if burning debris is the only option to dispose of woody material and other vegetation, safety should be the priority.

*Check with the local fire department to see if debris burning is allowed as fire restrictions may vary from one fire district or town to another.

*Check the weather forecast.

*Warmer temperatures and windy weather increase the dangers of an escaped debris burn, so choose days that are safe to burn.

*If burning is the only option, consider covering the pile with plastic and waiting for safer conditions before conducting the burn.

*Don’t burn prohibited materials. Prohibited materials include rubber and plastic products, tires, garbage, petroleum, asphalt or industrial waste, and any material that creates dense smoke or noxious odors.

*Divide large debris piles into smaller piles. Those burn quicker and are easier to control.

*Before ignition begins, debris piles should be surrounded by a 10-foot fire trail that’s cleared of flammable materials and scraped down to the dirt.

*Always have a shovel and charged garden hose at the burn site and stay with the fire until it is completely extinguished.

*Call 911 immediately if a debris burn escapes containment.

Get complete information on debris burning and fire safety at: www.dfpha.net