Jefferson County Declares High Fire Danger

The Jefferson County Fire Marshal and the Jefferson County Fire Chiefs are tasked with safeguarding our community against hazards to life and safety from dangerous conditions associated with fire, protecting residents, firefighters, emergency responders, community assets, and property.

Due to current atmospheric and field conditions, a declaration of high fire hazard is now in effect. In coordination, County Fire Chiefs and the County Fire Marshal agree that conditions warrant this declaration. 

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources reports that hot, dry weather has elevated wildfire danger statewide, with fine fuels such as unirrigated grasses and brush fully cured and ready to ignite, and no significant precipitation forecast in the coming weeks. Washington remains under a statewide drought emergency declared earlier this year.

During a declaration of high fire hazard:

•    Use of charcoal briquettes is prohibited, except for commercially made listed and labeled barbeque devices located and used at a residence. JCC 8.72.040(5)(c)(i).

•    Target shooting outside of gun ranges, and use of exploding targets or incendiary ammunition is prohibited. Hunting is allowed in open areas. JCC 8.72.040(5)(c)(i).

•    The discharge, manufacture, sale, storage, or transportation of fireworks is prohibited. JCC 8.75.040(2).

•    Outdoor burning is restricted; no recreational burning (campfires).

This declaration is in effect until atmospheric and field conditions fall to an acceptable level for a length of time to determine that the threat has lessened and that risk to residents, property, and emergency responders has subsided to acceptable levels.