08/30/2006: "Ban On Camp & Recreational Fires"

Due to continued drier than normal conditions and increasing fire danger, recreational fires are no longer allowed in San Juan County effective tomorrow, August 30. Recreational fires include campfires, open cooking fires, warming fires and bonfires.

Fire Chief Bill McLaughlin wants everyone to know that due to continued drier than normal conditions and increasing fire danger, recreational fires are no longer allowed in San Juan County effective August 30. Recreational fires include campfires, open cooking fires, warming fires and bonfires. Charcoal and propane grills are still allowed

The fire danger is now high throughout San Juan County. Less than one quarter of an inch of rain has been recorded at the Friday Harbor Airport since the first of July. Other locations around the County have seen as much as one half inch, still well below the 1.5 inches normally recorded during July and August.

Recreational fires have been responsible for numerous fires in the county this summer, including one that recent burned two buildings. Most recreational fires that escape are due to inadequate clearance around the fire. All recreational fires must be within a fire ring no larger than 24" across, and completely surrounded by a minimum of 4 feet of rock, stone, gravel sand or mineral earth.

Other outdoor wood burning devices are also prohibited. This includes outdoor wood ovens and chimineas.