Canby and other local fire districts have announced restrictions on outdoor burning ahead of expected heat, wind and other conditions expected over the Mother’s Day weekend.
Canby Fire Chief Jim Davis told the Current this week that the backyard burn season would be temporarily closed from Friday, May 12, through Monday, May 15 — including agricultural burning. Barbecues, fire pits and other contained recreational burning are not prohibited.
“The upcoming weekend is going to heighten our risk of wildfire spread.The upcoming weekend is going to heighten our risk of wildfire spread,” Davis said. “We will re-evaluate conditions Tuesday morning to determine a potential reopening.”
The weather forecast this weekend predicts high temperatures, low humidity and east wind gusts up to 20 to 30 mph beginning in the afternoon on Sunday and present lower relative humidity.
Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue and the Clackamas Fire District also announced a temporary burn ban starting Friday, which will remain in place until further notice, depending on weather.
The bans coincide with Wildfire Awareness Month during May. Fire safety officials encourage residents to ensure their homes are protected from wildfire by creating defensible space around it.
To create defensible space, officials recommend cleaning gutters and rooftops, removing pine needles, leaves, and vegetative fuels from under decks, patios, and from around the home, and clearing wood piles from under decks or next to the home.
Residents should also remove dead trees or shrubs and ensure adequare access to their property including overhead clearance for apparatus access. Those working outside in the heat should stay hydrated and take precautions to protect themselves from sun exposure.
For updated burn information in Canby Fire District, visit canbyfire.org/burn-information or call 503-266-1195.
Anyone needing to report illegal burning is asked to file a complaint with DEQ on its website here. If you observe a dangerous or out-of-control fire, call 911.
