Fire restrictions in effect for eastern Washington

OLYMPIA–If you're visiting Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife-managed lands in eastern Washington this summer, there are a number of restrictions in effect to help reduce the risk of wildfire and support the safety and health of local communities. Starting July 1, the following activities are restricted on WDFW-managed lands in eastern Washington:

• Fires or campfires, including those in fire rings. Personal camp stoves and lanterns fueled by propane, liquid petroleum, or liquid petroleum gas are allowed.

• Discharging firearms for target shooting or other purposes, aside from lawful hunting, unless otherwise posted. Target shooting is permitted daily from sunrise to 10 a.m. through Aug. 15 only at two Department shooting ranges, the Methow Shooting Range, Methow Wildlife Area Unit, and the Asotin Creek Shooting Range, Asotin Creek Wildlife Area Unit.

From Aug. 16 through Sept 15, restrictions prohibit discharging firearms for target shooting on all WDFW-managed lands (including the previously mentioned target-shooting ranges) in Eastern Washington, unless otherwise posted.

• Smoking, except in an enclosed vehicle. Do not throw lit cigarettes out your window.

• Welding and operating chainsaws, including the use of an acetylene torch or other open flame.

• Operating a motor vehicle away from developed roads. Parking is permitted within designated parking areas, including developed campgrounds and trailheads; and in areas without vegetation that are within 10 feet of roadways.

These restrictions are in effect until further notice; updates will be posted at WDFW's wildfire information webpage.

-Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife