Open fires and use of briquettes prohibited until further notice
to help prevent human-caused wildfires during hot, dry season
OLYMPIA – August 12, 2014 – Washington State Parks announced today that campfires in all state parks will be prohibited until further notice to help prevent human-caused wildfires during the hot, dry season on both sides of the Cascade Mountains.
The prohibition on campfires in state parks complies with the announcement Monday by Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which notified the public of a ban on all outdoor burning on lands protected by DNR, through Sept. 30. That agency has fire protection responsibility for all but a few state parks. Prohibiting open fires and campfires in all state parks is intended to minimize public confusion and cooperate in DNR’s effort to prevent wildfires.
DNR has said that significant demands are being placed upon fire suppression resources from regional and statewide firefighting efforts.
Campers in state parks will be allowed to use devices that allow for control of combustion, including:
- Propane and liquid gas stoves appropriate for camping and backcountry use
- Propane barbecue devices that do not use solid briquettes
- Propane or pressurized white gas warming devices that have a shield or base
- Lava rocks or lava logs may be used in propane grills and barbecues
- Solid fuel citronella or other candles in a metal bucket or glass container
About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
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Share your favorite state park adventure on the State Parks’ blog site at www.AdventureAwaits.com.
Support state parks by purchasing your annual Discover Pass today, and enjoy a whole year of outdoor fun on Washington’s beautiful state-managed recreation lands. For more information, visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov.
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