Multnomah County fire officials issue burn ban

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, August 27, 2019

By Christopher Keizur

A backyard campfire is shown here in Portland.

Multnomah Fire Defense Board Chief Scott Lewis issued an outdoor burn ban effective immediately across all of Multnomah County.

The burn ban was issued due to forecasted high temperatures, limited rainfall and ongoing dry conditions. The order comes a day after a 4-alarm grass fire destroyed two buildings and prompted evacuations in Northeast Portland.

The blaze swept across four acres near 85th Avenue and Siskiyou Street.

The ban includes recreational campfires, fire pits, yard debris, agricultural burning and permits issued for open burning until further notice.

Check with local fire departments for more information.

— 503-618-2032 for Gresham, Troutdale, Wood Village, Fairview and Fire District 10

— 503-695-2225 for Corbett Fire District 14

— 503-823-3700 for Portland Fire & Rescue

Outdoor barbecuing is still allowed — however, residents should exercise caution. When using charcoal briquettes properly dispose of ashes in a covered metal container away from combustibles, and keep the ashes wet for a few days before properly disposing them. Maintain at least 10 feet between outdoor cooking and anything combustible such as siding, fences and shrubbery.

Smokers are reminded to ensure cigarettes are truly out and placed in proper receptacles. Those living in rural areas should maintain their defensible space by monitoring growth surrounding structures and maintain adequate access for firefighting equipment.

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