News photo by Josh Jambor Pictured is the south side station for the Alpena Township Fire Department. This time of the year is notorious for wildfires, and Alpena Township and City of Alpena Fire chiefs offered advice on how to enjoy fires safely.

ALPENA – Spring has arrived and so have outdoor gatherings and the desire to relax outdoors around a fire. Local officials are urging residents to exercise caution, as one spark can quickly turn a relaxing night into a neighborhood emergency.

The City of Alpena city ordinance permits the use of recreational fire pits if they are under two feet in diameter and height, used strictly for cooking and recreational purposes, and placed at least 15 feet away from any combustible building, structure, or property line. The same rules apply for Alpena Township residents.

According to information published by the City of Alpena Fire Department, fires must consist of clean, dry wood, be constantly supervised by an adult, and have fire extinguishing methods readily available. While small, attended fire pits are allowed, the city generally prohibits open burning, such as leaves or debris.

City of Alpena Fire Chief Andy Marceau said only dry wood should be used for bonfires, and that residents should be mindful of neighbors.

“We want people to enjoy campfires, they are supposed to be enjoyable, spending time with family and cooking smores and whatever else, but you must be conscious of your neighbors,” Marceau said. “We do not want any wet wood or debris in the fire that should not be in there, that could affect someone who has a breathing problem.”

Marceau also said a fire should be extinguished before leaving it unattended to prevent the possibility of the fire rekindling.

“At the end of the night, you must put the fire out, you must get some water, and do not assume it’s out because you put water on it,” he said. “Stir it around and make sure it is out before you go to bed.”

According to Alpena Township Fire Chief Tim Baker, recreational fires are allowed without a permit, when done safely. Township residents must burn clean, dry firewood only. Fires must be in a pit, ring, or outdoor fireplace. Fires should be kept small, controlled, and always monitored. There should also be a water source or extinguisher nearby and smoke should not create a nuisance for neighbors.

Burn barrels are allowed in Alpena Township when the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) burn-permit status is “YES.” Only clean paper waste may be burned. A metal screen is required, and the fire must be attended at all times.

According to the Michigan DNR website, to check for active burn bans or no-burn alerts in Michigan, check the Michigan DNR Burn Permits Map daily after 10 a.m. A map showing green indicates burning is allowed, while brown indicates no burning is permitted. You can also call the DNR burn permit information line at 866-922-2876.

Violating burn bans or safety regulations in Alpena County can lead to civil infractions, with fines up to $500 per violation. Open burning requires a permit from the Michigan DNR, and burning prohibited materials or ignoring bans can result in citations, especially if the fire causes damage or creates safety hazards. If a fire causes damage the person responsible for that fire is liable.

The National Weather Service released the following information related to fire safety, particularly in the spring:

“Recreational fire safety is crucial in spring despite rain because, after snowmelt, dormant, dead vegetation (grass, leaves) dries out within hours due to wind and sun, acting as fast-burning fuel. Lack of green, leafy foliage allows the sun to dry the ground quickly, increasing wildfire risk. Windy conditions can immediately whip small fires out of control.”

Baker advised residents to follow recreational fire best practices.

“The important thing about having a recreational fire is to keep it to a size that is easily controlled,” Baker said. “There should be a water source near-by (bucket/garden hose), keep it within a fire ring, keep it at least 25 feet from other combustible materials including trees, and that there is someone in attendance while burning.”

Regardless of the current weather conditions, Baker stressed the importance of checking the burn status on the Michigan DNR website.

“They should check with the DNR site, as that is guidance on burning and any advisories for fire conditions,” Baker explained. “Also keep in mind that if any burning gets out of control and the fire department must control and extinguish, the local cost recovery ordinance is specific, and a bill would be sent to the homeowner for the costs incurred with department efforts.”

Josh Jambor can be reached at jjambor@thealpenanews.com.