ALERT: Wildfire Danger 'Very High' in Many Areas of Michigan

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Fire danger is “high” or “very high” in many areas of the state, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said Wednesday.

The alert status was changed due to recent warm temperatures and lack of rain, many portions of the state are seeing increased fire danger. The conditions are expected to remain for the next few days and into the weekend. Click here for the alert status in your area.

Dan Laux, fire prevention specialist with the DNR, said that fire activity has picked up over the past few days and DNR firefighters and other fire-suppression personnel across the state have been responding to more wildfire calls.

“According to the National Weather Service there are chances for rain in the forecast, but amounts will be limited and scattered in the areas that see precipitation,” Laux said in a statement. “Many areas of the state are starting to see elevated drought conditions.”

Laux said that the small amounts of rainfall that are expected will not have enough of an impact on these dry conditions.

“Because of these conditions,” he said, “we’re asking folks to be cautious with any outdoor fires.”

The DNR urges everyone to take extra precautions over the next couple days and into the weekend as the dry conditions persist. Anyone planning to enjoy the nice weather with a campfire is asked to follow the following safety tips:

• Use fire rings in nonflammable areas that are sheltered from wind.
• Keep a water source and shovel nearby.
• Place roasting sticks in a bucket of water when not in use.
• NEVER leave a campfire unattended.
• Completely extinguish fires before turning in for the night. Douse with water, stir and douse again to make sure there are no hot embers left.

For more campfire and fire safety tips visit the DNR website.

Photo: USDA via Flickr