The fire danger risk level for Jefferson County is increasing from low to moderate on June 1, one month before a county ordinance dictates such an increase.

Jefferson County Fire Marshal Phil Cecere addressed the Board of County Commissioners on Monday, May 19, to explain that a county ordinance automatically elevates the fire danger level to moderate from the beginning of July to the end of September.

However, Cecere added that this period can be extended or initiated ahead of schedule. He also clarified that, while all brush burning and large burning is prohibited under the moderate fire danger risk level, recreational fires and campfires are still allowed.

Under the moderate risk designation, recreational fires are limited to a maximum of 3 feet by 3 feet, while during low danger levels, brush burning is allowed in a 10-by-10-foot area.

Cecere advised exercising caution in brush burning between now and June 1, due to “abnormally dry” conditions.

Under moderate danger levels, Jefferson County code 8.72.040 states that outdoor burning is allowed on private residential premises, as well as on designated campsites where such fires are built, ignited and maintained, in a permanent barbecue, portable barbecue, outdoor fireplace or grill.

Portable fireplaces, pits and chimineas (free-standing portable fireplaces with their own chimneys) are also allowed under the moderate risk designation, if they are placed on non-combustible materials.

County code dictates that combustible materials must be removed, down to mineral soil, below portable fireplaces, pits and chimineas, and from the surrounding area, to a distance of 1.5 feet.

Code also dictates that only natural wood fuel sources can be used in portable fireplaces, pits and chimineas, and that those fuel sources cannot extend outside of the portable fireplaces, pits or chimineas.

The impending increase in fire danger risk level was announced as the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a series of suspicious fires occurring in the Cape George area since March.

According to Patrol Sgt. Brett Anglin, evidence indicates that between seven or eight such fires have been “human caused.”

Anglin noted that sheriff’s deputies are increasing patrols in the area, and are requesting public assistance from those who may have information regarding the identities of those responsible for the fires occurring in wooded areas along Cape George Road, between Pocket Lane and Dennis Boulevard.

Anglin elaborated that these incidents have occurred “mostly” on the lands of the Cape George Colony Club and the state Department of Natural Resources.

Although the fires have not yet spread extensively, Cecere and Anglin both expressed concerns about forecasts of increasingly dry weather.

Those with information may contact Detective Sgt. Derek Allen at dallen@co.jefferson.wa.us, but Anglin urged people to report any suspicious activity immediately to 911, so the sheriff’s office can investigate those incidents “in a timely fashion.”

The sheriff’s office also advised that reports of suspicious activities can be directed to JeffCom 911 at 360-344-9779.