Fire danger in Grants Pass has been lowered for the second time in two days as continued rainfall and unusually cool early September temperatures reduce fire conditions across Jackson and Josephine counties.
The City of Grants Pass lowered its fire danger level from high to moderate at 10 a.m. Thursday, September 3. The change follows Wednesday’s reduction from extreme to high, marking a rapid adjustment in local fire restrictions after consecutive days of cooler and wetter weather.
The moderate designation, represented by blue on the city’s fire danger scale, eases some restrictions governing equipment capable of producing sparks or igniting dry vegetation. Fire season remains in effect, however, and a number of activities continue to be restricted.
Under the moderate regulations, chainsaws, mowers, weed eaters and other power driven equipment may now be operated before 1 p.m. and after 8 p.m. Cutting, grinding and other metal work capable of producing sparks is permitted during those same hours. Mowing green lawns may be conducted at any time.
Power saws must be shut down between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Anyone operating a power saw during permitted hours must have a shovel and a fire extinguisher with a capacity of at least eight ounces available at the work site. A fire watch lasting at least one hour is required after saw operations have ended.
Cutting, grinding and welding metal in areas containing flammable vegetation are prohibited between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Mowing dried or cured grass is also prohibited during that seven hour period.
Open wood fueled fires remain prohibited. The restriction applies to campfires, cooking fires and warming fires except at locations specifically designated by the Grants Pass Fire Marshal. Wood smokers and charcoal barbecues remain permitted, along with propane and natural gas fueled ornamental fires.
Smoking continues to be prohibited in areas containing flammable vegetation.
Restrictions also remain in place for vehicles traveling through areas where dry vegetation could ignite. Motor vehicles, motorcycles and all terrain vehicles may be operated only on improved roads that are free of flammable vegetation, with an exception for activities involving the cultivation and harvesting of agricultural crops.
Other spark emitting internal combustion engines operating around flammable vegetation are prohibited between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. When such equipment is used during permitted hours, it must be operated in a cleared area with either a charged garden hose or a fire extinguisher weighing at least 2½ pounds immediately available.
The Grants Pass Fire Marshal or an authorized representative may provide written approval for modifications or waivers of the requirements when appropriate.
Thursday’s reduction follows a significant change in weather conditions across Southern Oregon. After spending portions of the summer under extreme fire danger restrictions, Grants Pass moved through two lower classifications in approximately 24 hours as rainfall and cooler temperatures altered immediate fire conditions.
The lower classification does not end fire season or eliminate prevention requirements. Residents using outdoor power equipment, conducting metal work, mowing dry vegetation or operating vehicles near combustible vegetation remain subject to the moderate level restrictions currently in effect.
Additional information regarding Grants Pass fire season regulations is available from the city’s Fire Prevention Division at 541-450-6200.