A string of dry days in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula means that fire risk is high this weekend, so please be careful as you work and play outdoors.

“There hasn’t been significant rain in parts of the Upper Peninsula for more than two weeks,” said Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “Burn permits will be limited, and we are asking everyone to be very careful with their campfires this weekend and into Monday.”

It is unlikely that permits will be approved over the next few days. However, if you intend to burn yard debris, check online for a burn permit. In the area affected by the March ice storm, delay burning or use extra caution due to the amount of wood still on the ground in or near forests.

If you build a campfire, keep it small and never leave it. When you have finished with your campfire, drench it with water, stir the ashes and drench it again. Make sure metal campfire rings are cool before you leave the site.

Wildfire smoke and your health

Aside from fire risk, statewide air quality advisories run through Saturday due to smoke drifting from out-of-state fires. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy is working to provide up-to-date air quality information. Check the Air Quality Index often on your phone or other smart device and sign up to get messages when air quality conditions pose health risks.

Protecting yourself and others during wildfire smoke events is important. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has shared Your Health and Wildfire Smoke to help everyone stay better informed.

Keep fire safety in mind

Here are additional fire safety tips:

–Whenever you build any type of fire outside, keep a hose or other water source nearby.

–When burning yard debris, keep piles small. Large piles can stay hot for many hours, increasing the risk of an escaped fire.

–Prevent sparks. Keep trailer chains from dragging and don’t park hot equipment on dry grass.

–Don’t burn plastic, hazardous materials, foam or other household trash. This is illegal and can release dangerous chemicals into the air.

–Use a burn barrel with a screen on top to burn paper, leaves and natural materials.

Get more fire safety information at Michigan.gov/FireManagement.