ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has currently placed burning restrictions on twenty-three counties across the state. The brief return to normal and above normal temperatures has exposed dry grass and brush, creating an increased potential for wildfires.
The DNR recently assisted the Andover, Coon Rapids, Ham Lake, Anoka-Champlin, and Oak Grove Fire Departments in fighting a slew of grass fires in Andover. Police say they received the first call on April 28th about a fire near Bunker Lake Boulevard and Hanson Boulevard. Within an hour there were as many as 10 fires reported in the area. Firefighters did successfully put out the fires; however, right now there is no known cause for the suspiciously high number of fires. In Minnesota, most wildfires are caused by people, whether intentionally or unintentionally.
Although the DNR does allow campfires smaller than three feet in any direction, they do not allow the burning of debris. They do this to help minimize fire risk. If you do plan on having a campfire, remember that properly extinguishing your fire is key to wildfire prevention.
Related Links
MN DNR Fire Safety
Current Fire Danger and Restrictions
