Near Record Temps are expected over the next couple days. The US National Weather Service Portland Oregon has issued a Fire Weather Watch and a RED FLAG Warning for Clark County on Friday Afternoon.
A Red Flag Warning means that Critical Fire Weather Conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. A combination of the above conditions can contribute to extreme fire behavior.
Due to the weather forecast for the rest of this week, Clark County is joining Skamania and Cowlitz counties in imposing a temporary ban on outdoor land clearing and residential burning effective at midnight tonight, May 9. Conditions will be assessed on Monday morning to determine if the ban should be lifted or left in place for a longer period of time.
Recreational campfires are still allowed if built in improved fire pits in designated campgrounds, such as commercial campgrounds and local, county and state parks. On private land, recreational fires are permitted when built according to the following regulations:
- Recreational fires must be in metal-, stone- or masonry-lined fire pits in improved campgrounds or purchased from home and garden stores.
- Size may not exceed 3 feet in diameter by 2 feet in height.
- Fires must be at least 25 feet from a structure or other combustible material and have at least 20 feet of clearance from overhead fuels such as tree limbs, patio covers or carports.
- Fires must be attended at all times by a responsible person at least 16 years old with the ability and tools to extinguish the fire. Tools include a shovel and either five gallons of water or a water hose connected and working.
- Portable outdoor fireplaces, also known as patio fireplaces, should not be operated within 15 feet of a structure or combustible material. They must always be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Completely extinguish recreational fires by covering them with water or moist soil and stirring with a shovel until all parts are cool to the touch.
Self-contained camp stoves are a safe and easy alternative to camp fires for cooking.
Fire Safety
Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility! All outdoor fires must be constantly attended by an adult until the fire is extinguished. Provide adequate means for extinguishing a fire and keep it readily available. Don’t burn if wind conditions make it hazardous to do so. Adhere to the fire safety requirements listed on your permit.