DNR warns of extreme, very high fire conditions in U.P.

Michigan DNR
Michigan is currently experiencing unprecedented hot and dry conditions for this time of year, causing extreme and very high fire danger in the Upper Peninsula for nearly three weeks.
Kerry Heckman, public information officer with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Incident Management Team, said three of the drivers of fire risk are temperature, humidity/dryness and wind. Michigan is experiencing all of those right now. However, the wind has been favorable for the past few weeks.
How people can help. There are steps people can take to prevent wildfires including:
•Never leaving their fires unattended, even for a minute.
•Calling 911 immediately If they see a wildfire or if their personal fire gets out of control. The sooner they call, the quicker firefighters can respond to the emergency. Immediate action can save lives.
•Helping prevent the 27% of wildfires caused by debris (leaf, brush) burning by being aware of weather conditions before burning and by checking to see if burn permits are being issued in their area by the DNR (northern two-thirds of the state and the Upper Peninsula) or local authorities (southern Michigan). Burn permits are not being issued by the DNR at this time.
•Making sure campfires are out cold before turning in for the night: Always put fires out completely with water. Drench, stir with a shovel and drench again. Use the back of their hands to ensure the fire is cool. If they feel any heat, it’s not out!
For more information about wildfire risk, visit the DNR’s website at Michigan.gov/DNR/FireAlert or contact Kerry Heckman at 517-643-1256.