Fire officials encourage early home preparation ahead of wildfire season

By TAYLOR CALDWELL

LEAVENWORTH — As unseasonably warm winter conditions persist, local fire officials are encouraging residents to prepare themselves for another severe wildfire season, including taking steps to protect their homes and neighborhoods.

According to Chelan County Fire District 3 (CCFD 3) Deputy Chief and Fire Marshal Mike Smith, if conditions continue as they are, the area could potentially see “another record-breaking season” for fuel moisture, which could result in fast and large fire growth. Additionally, the fire season could start earlier and end later, said Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescue (LWFR) Deputy Chief of Operations Steve Foley.

“I would encourage people to start thinking ahead a little bit and making sure that whatever work they do is a little bit earlier than expected, so that they can get fuels off the ground and make for a safer community,” said Foley.

Officials stressed that burn piles should be completed sooner rather than later. Both Smith and Foley anticipate the burn ban will go into effect earlier than the typical June 1 date due to conditions. Even now, officials warn that precautions should be taken, such as maintaining a shovel and water on hand and monitoring the fire at all times.

“We have already had an escaped burn pile in Cashmere that we responded to on a mutual aid fire,” said Smith.

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