PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The US Forest Service has identified the City of Portage as being in the extreme risk category for fire due to current drought conditions.
Safety experts warn that when the fire danger is extreme fires of all types start quickly, spread rapidly, and burn intensely. They stress that due to the current conditions, fires will be very difficult to fight and may become very dangerous.
The Portage Fire Division is asking residents not to use commercial fireworks over this Fourth of July weekend, but instead, leave it to the professionals and attend a public firework display in the area.
They warn also that recreational campfires will pose a danger in the current drought conditions, and ask people to refrain from igniting a campfire until drought conditions improve.
They go onto say that those choosing to use commercial fireworks or ignite a campfire should do so with extreme caution and have a water source or a bucket of water close by to quickly douse sparks and spent fireworks that may turn into a spot fire.
The Fire Division urges everyone to be alert and watch for fires, and to call 9-1-1 immediately should there be smoke, or even a small fire in the area.
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