If you’re headed up north this weekend, Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources wants you to keep in mind a word of caution.
Some areas of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula still are experiencing elevated fire danger after weeks of higher-than-normal fire danger.
That means take extra caution when building campfires, burning yard debris, grilling or using fireworks to celebrate the Memorial Day holiday weekend.
The Department of Natural Resources reports that warm temperatures are predicted statewide this weekend. Higher humidity and occasional rain showers will help with current elevated fire conditions in some places, but not all areas will see rain.
“We want everyone to enjoy the weekend, but do take precautions,” said Paul Rogers, DNR fire prevention specialist. “The vast majority of wildfires in Michigan are caused by human activity.”
Anyone who plans to burn in the northern Lower Peninsula or Upper Peninsula must go online to michigan.gov/burnpermit or call 866-922-2876 to see where burning is allowed. People in the southern Lower Peninsula should check with their local municipalities for burning regulations.
If you build a campfire, make sure to have a water source and shovel available to extinguish it and make sure it is completely out before leaving the area.
