JULY 4- Hot Dry Weather Cause Concern

We are in the second June in a row that has been warmer and dryer than normal. In various parts of the state, firefighters are already fighting fires at a level expected in August or September.

The Mays Pond Neighborhood Watch has warned its members about dry conditions. The recent story about possible fireworks igniting brush adjacent to some homes in Federal Way demonstrates the danger that homeowners may be in over July 4.

KIRO TV:

http://www.kirotv.com/news/news/large-brush-fire-started-fireworks/nmjJC/

The Neighborhood Watch recommends that neighbors who have a backyard that borders a field cut back dry vegetation on the other side of their fence or property line. Also, after using your mower or weed Wacker, water down the area to suppress any sparks.

They also recommend having water available, hoses or buckets, and a fire extinguisher which are effective in suppressing small fires.

Of course, call 911 if you have a fire on your property or on any neighboring property.

How to use a fire extinguisher:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUojO1HvC8c

 

Finally, they recommend that if you are going to be away for the Fourth, that you have a trusted neighbor watch your home for fire due to the dry conditions.

National Weather Service Issues Special Weather Statement. Snohomish County has noted that the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Special Weather Statement for high temperatures and increasing fire danger starting on Friday through early next week. The NWS says that highs will range in the upper 80’s and low 90’s in daytime and lows will range in the lower 60’s to the upper 50’s. NWS also says that there is a chance of thunderstorms over the weekend with little accompanying rain which could spark wildfires.

The County reminds everyone that the State and the County have both imposed burn bans due to the dry conditions. And it points out that the NWS Long-Range Outlook calls for warmer and drier conditions throughout the summer.

The County recommends that:

• You drink plenty of water.
• Exercise caution when you are using bodies of water for recreation.
• Do not leave children or pets in your vehicles.
• Keep an eye out for burglars who would take advantage of open windows.
• Seek places where you can be cool or that offer air conditioning such as malls, shopping centers and movie theaters.

Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management:

http://snohomishcountywa.gov/180/Emergency-Management

 

http://www.snohomishcountywa.gov/1394/Emergency-Information