High fire danger across Michigan

OCP file photo

“If you’re heading to northern Michigan to look for morels, hit your favorite fishing spot or get in a little time on the trails, be aware that fire danger is high,” states Michigan Department of Natural Resources press release issued Friday, May 15. “The MesoWest Great Lakes Fire & Fuels map shows the daily fire danger rating as high or very high for much of the state, so be careful with campfires, off-road vehicles, trailer chains and any power equipment that gets hot during use.”

The map shows that Oceana County is in a “very high” fire danger area.

“Nine out of 10 wildfires in Michigan are caused by people, and a little bit of caution can go a long way toward preventing escaped fires,” said Jeff Vasher, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources resource protection manager for the Lower Peninsula. “We want everybody to have fun, but we also want them to stay safe.”

The DNR will not issue permits for burning yard debris in the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula this weekend. People who live in the southern part of the state should check with their local fire department or municipality to find out whether it is safe to burn.

Even if the landscape looks green, vegetation still can be dry from grasses lying dormant through the winter. That’s particularly true in the Upper Peninsula at the moment.

Fire safety is also important in the northern Lower Peninsula, where downed wood from the March 2025 ice storm is now dried out and could contribute to more intense wildfires.

Safety first

Here are tips to keep your outdoor activities firesafe anywhere in the state:

• Keep a hose or other water source nearby when burning.
• Prevent sparks. Keep trailer chains from dragging when you’re on the road and don’t park hot equipment on dry grass.
• Contain your campfire or bonfire in a pit or ring and make sure you put it out thoroughly before leaving for the night. Douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and douse again.
• Never leave any fire — including hot coals — unattended.
• Never shoot fireworks into the woods, dry grass or shrubs.
• Never burn plastic, hazardous materials, foam or other household trash. It is illegal and can release dangerous chemicals into the air. Use a burn barrel with a screen on top to burn paper, leaves and other natural materials.

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