Burning ice storm debris? Check for a burn permit first

Residents in northern Michigan have fallen branches and wood to get rid of after the ice storm, but despite a little rain today, grass and shrubs are dry after lying dormant all winter, increasing the threat of wildfire.

“People cause nine out of 10 wildfires, and most of them are debris piles that got out of control,” said Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

“We want to be able to focus our energy on continuing to clear trees off roads and provide access to communications towers in the 12-county emergency area,” Rogers said. The DNR is part of a statewide relief effort and is working with the Michigan National Guard and others.

Before you light a burn pile, check Michigan.gov/BurnPermit or call 866-922-BURN to make sure conditions are safe in your area. People in southern Michigan should check with their local government or fire department.

Here are tips if you do burn:

• Keep a hose or another water source on hand and keep an eye out for flying embers. Windborne embers can travel far and fast.
• If you are building a campfire or bonfire, keep it within a contained pit or ring and make sure you thoroughly put out the fire before you leave it. That means dousing it with water, stirring the ashes and dousing again.
• Don’t burn any debris from damaged buildings or other items that include synthetic materials such as plastics or insulation. Dispose of that using a different method.

If you live in the storm area, you may also want to take advantage of these resources:

• The Michigan.gov/IceStorm webpage, an online resource for Michigan residents affected by severe winter weather in northern Michigan.
• Check the DNR’s Urban and Community Forestry webpage for guidance on tree care and maintenance.
• Michigan State University Extension offers storm damage tips.