DNR warns of elevated fire danger during holiday weekend

UPPER PENINSULA — After weeks of higher-than-normal fire danger, some areas in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula are still experiencing elevated fire danger.

While higher humidity and occasional rain showers will help with elevated fire conditions in some places, it’s important to remember to be careful when building campfires, burning yard debris, grilling or using fireworks to celebrate during Memorial Day weekend.

“We want everyone to enjoy the weekend, but do take precautions,” said Paul Rogers, DNR fire prevention specialist, in a statement. “The vast majority of wildfires in Michigan are caused by human activity.”

Anyone who plans to burn in the northern Lower Peninsula or Upper Peninsula should click HERE or call 866-922-2876 to see where burning is allowed. People in the southern Lower Peninsula should check with their local municipalities for burning regulations.

If you build a campfire, make sure to have a water source and shovel available to extinguish it and make sure it is completely out before leaving the area.