DNR: fire safety matters

According to a story by Minnesota Public Radio, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reported 50 wildfires over the long Memorial Day weekend, from central Minnesota northward to the Canadian border. While Carlton County was listed as a moderate fire risk on Wednesday, the DNR issued a red flag warning for several counties in northern and central Minnesota effective Sunday, May 28, including high fire danger across the Arrowhead region north of Duluth.

No open burning is allowed in northeastern Minnesota. Campfires are allowed, but don’t leave fire unattended.

The DNR reminds the public that safety matters. Report wildfires immediately by calling 911 from a safe location. A quick cleanup of yard waste or a simple campfire might seem harmless, but on warm, sunny, or windy days, even a small fire near dry grass or brush can quickly become a rapidly moving wildfire. Not only do wildfires threaten property, but too often they lead to injuries and even fatalities.

As summer approaches, be careful when burning vegetation or enjoying an evening around the campfire. Any fire larger than 3 feet diameter and 3 feet high needs a burning permit. By allowing burning permit activation only on days that are safe to burn, DNR is keeping your safety a priority.