Burn restrictions will be removed

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced Tuesday that the fire danger rating will be lowered in more northeast areas of the state.

Effective at 12:01 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2012, the fire danger rating in Okanogan County will drop from ‘high’ to ‘moderate.’ At the same time, the fire danger rating in Spokane, Stevens, Lincoln, Ferry, and Pend Oreille counties will drop from ‘moderate’ to ‘low.’

Rule burning (burning small piles while following the rules) and permit burning (burning larger piles that require a permit) will be allowed in Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens, Lincoln, Ferry, and Pend Oreille counties. People are reminded to be careful when burning by following these simple steps:

1)  Put a fire break around your fire

2)  Do not leave the fire unattended

3)  Put the fire out every night

4)  If wind speeds increase, put out your fire

5)  Check before burning by calling 1-800-323-BURN or visit www.dnr.wa.gov for current burning conditions

The Industrial Fire Precaution Level (IFPL) Hotline is updated each afternoon around 5 p.m. For the IFPL in your work zone, call 1-800-527-3305.