Wildfire state of emergency in effect

OLYMPIA - A wildfire state of emergency and limited burn ban is in effect until Sept. 30.

Gov. Jay Inslee made the declaration on July 6.

"Washington is facing a historic drought and we have already experienced record-breaking heat. We must be vigilant in our efforts to prevent wildfires," Inslee said. "We don't want a repeat of recent years with dangerous wildfires across the state that have destroyed towns, killed livestock, and resulted in weeks of unhealthy air quality."

Exceptions to the ban include charcoal grills, gas stoves that are at least 5 feet from flammable vegetation, and small campfires on private property.

Banned fires include campfires, bonfires, weed control, clearing land, garbage disposal, and more.

The governor's order does not supersede more restrictive rules adopted by city or county governments.

The burn ban includes Washington State parks. The state proclamation activates the National Guard to help with firefighting efforts.