Fire danger elevated in Upper Peninsula; be careful when working, playing outdoors

Burn permits for brush and yard debris will not be issued in the western Upper Peninsula due to an extended dry period this fall.

“The western portion of the Upper Peninsula is starting to see drought conditions, and fires that have occurred are taking a significant amount of time to extinguish,” said Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Permits will not be issued until significant rainfall has occurred.

Fire danger also is elevated in the eastern U.P. and parts of the northern Lower Peninsula, so check the burn permit website to see whether burning is allowed before you start a fire.

For bowhunters at deer camp or others enjoying the outdoors, cooking and warming fires such as campfires are still allowed. If you do have a campfire, make sure to have water and a rake or shovel nearby. Never leave a fire unattended and always make sure to drench the fire with water, stir it and drench it again before you leave it.

If you’re using off-road vehicles or power equipment outside, always watch for sparks and keep hot engines away from dry grass or leaves.

“Everybody wants to get out and enjoy the good weather, just do it with an eye toward fire safety,” Rogers said.

Fore more fire safety tips, visit Michigan.gov/FireManagement.