SPOKANE, WASH. — Spokane Fire District 9 is warning of an especially high risk for wildfires across the Inland Northwest. The combination of high temperatures, minimal precipitation and strong winds has created dangerous fire conditions.
Fire Chief Matt Vinci called on the community to take immediate action to prevent catastrophic fires. He emphasized that fireworks are illegal during fire season and urged residents to dispose of any leftover Fourth of July fireworks.
“We are doing our part…and we are asking residents to do their part,” Vinci said. “There should be no outside burning…Fireworks are illegal…Just don’t use fireworks.”
Vinci outlined practical steps homeowners can take to protect their properties. Creating defensible space around homes, clearing vegetation like dead trees and branches—is one of the most effective measures. Residents should also remove leaves and pine needles from gutters, trim overhanging branches and eliminate brush piles and other combustible materials from their yards.
“You can be fire safe by ensuring you have defensible space around your home…get rid of all combustibles…make sure you have a go bag ready to go,” Vinci said. “Do your part…we are doing our part…and lets have a safe day tomorrow.”
Fire officials also recommend that homeowners remove propane grills, firewood piles and other flammable items away from their homes. Residents should prepare evacuation go-bags now with important documents, medications, irreplaceable photos and a change of clothes.
The fire department’s message is clear: both officials and residents must work together to prevent wildfires from taking hold in the region. The dangerous weather pattern is expected to continue through at least tomorrow, making fire prevention efforts critical.
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