Every summer beginning in July, the number of fires related to warmer weather increases. In the past week, we responded to over 30 dry weather-related fires involving bark, dry grass and shrubs.
Carelessly discarded smoking materials and lit fireworks can cause significant damage an put residents and responding firefighters at risk. Fireworks caused a major fire in West Seattle on July 4 that caused over $100,000 in damages.
Here are steps to help reduce the chance outdoor fires:
- Discourage friends and family members from lighting fireworks.
- Douse smoking materials in water before tossing out. Make sure proper cigarette disposal canisters are available in areas where smoking is allowed.
- Remove long grass, weeds or anything that can burn from around homes. This includes limbs that touch buildings or hang near the roof.
- Remove dead plants or bushes as soon as possible.
- Clear roof and gutters of pine needles and leaves
