By Sharyn L. Decker
Lewis County Sirens news reporter
Hot, dry conditions and a substantial danger of fire have prompted a ban on outdoor burning in unincorporated Lewis County that begins at the end of the day on Friday.
Not affected are recreational fires in approved burning receptacles or approved campfire sites, according to Community Development Director Lee Napier, acting as fire marshal.
The restrictions will remain in effect until further action by the county Board of Commissioners.
The board has authority over areas in Lewis County that are outside any city limits and not part of any state or federal lands.
The state Department of Natural Resources said this morning it is preparing to issue cautions to the public given the current conditions which include low humidity.
Firefighters were mopping up yesterday after a fire northwest of Packwood that began on Sunday and was contained at about six acres, according to DNR. It happened up Craig Road in timber slash, the remnants of a previous harvest, according to DNR spokesperson Janet Pearce.
Weather forecasters show temperatures climbing up through the 80s this week around Chehalis.
Officer Patty Finch of the Centralia Police Department is reminding folks of the dangers of leaving pets or people inside parked vehicles in the warm weather, even with the windows cracked.
As an illustration, Finch says on an 85 degree day, it takes only about 10 minutes for a vehicle to heat up to 100 degrees inside.
Finch further recommends:
• Drink plenty of water. Alcohol, caffeine and beverages with sugar can cause dehydration.
• Eat regular, balanced meals.
• Wear sunscreen, hats and loose fitting clothing.
• Make sure your pets have plenty of water.
• If you begin to feel dizzy, nauseous or have headaches or muscle cramps, move to a cooler location, rest for a few minutes and drink cold water. Seek medical attention immediately if you do not feel better.
For details about outdoor burning, call 360-740-1146.
Tags: By Sharyn L. Decker, news reporter