Preventing the disaster: Burn permit suspensions, burn closures, and red flag warnings

As Alaskans, we cherish our pristine wilderness and the freedom to enjoy outdoor activities like camping and burning brush on our properties. As the land’s stewards, it's crucial we understand the various restrictions that protect our communities and natural resources from the dangers of wildfires. Let’s explore the differences between burn permit suspensions, burn closures, and red flag warnings.

A burn permit suspension is a temporary pause on open burning. The State of Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection (that’s their new full name as of 2023) is responsible for managing the state's burn permit program in our region. This program regulates open burning activities. When weather conditions or fire danger levels increase, Forestry may temporarily suspend burn permits. During a burn permit suspension, all open burning is prohibited, including burn barrels, brush and debris burning, and campfires larger than a small recreational fire.

Burn permit suspensions are issued for a specific period until conditions improve. These suspensions serve as a proactive measure to reduce the risk of wildfires starting and spreading during periods of increased fire danger. It's essential to stay informed about any burn permit suspensions in your area and to follow the restrictions to help protect your community. They can be extended after being issued.

When fire danger reaches critical levels, the Alaska Division of Forestry may put in place a burn closure. These are rare and need a lot of approvals from the State administration. Burn closures are more extensive than burn permit suspensions and involve they completely prohibit all open burning within a designated area including small recreational fires. When people think of a “burn ban,” this is what they are thinking of.

Burn closures can cover entire regions, boroughs, or even the entire state, depending on the severity of the fire danger. They remain in effect until conditions become safer for open burning. During a burn closure, it's crucial to find alternative ways to dispose of debris and enjoy the outdoors without fire. Even a charcoal barbecue or smoker can violate a burn closure. A rule of thumb is if you can’t turn it off with the flip of a switch, it’s not allowed during a burn closure. Significant fines and legal consequences may result if you burn against a closure.

In addition to burn permit suspensions and burn closures, the National Weather Service issues red flag warnings to alert the public and fire agencies about weather conditions that could lead to increased fire danger and rapid fire spread. Red flag warnings state the combination of strong winds, low humidity, and dry fuels that make fires more likely to start and escalate.

Stay informed about any red flag warnings in your area. While they are not a burning restriction in themselves, they indicate that risks are higher than normal. During red flag warnings, it’s best to postpone outdoor burning, ensure campfires are completely extinguished, and use extra caution with potential ignition sources like cigarettes, firearms practice, or sparks from equipment.

One of the most common misunderstandings is the differences between campfire and warming fire, and why they can be legal during a burn permit suspension. A campfire is a small, controlled fire used for cooking, warmth, or recreation, usually contained within a fire pit or ring. In contrast, a warming fire is a small fire used for providing heat, rather than for cooking or recreation. Warming fires are often used in outdoor settings, such as while camping or working in cold conditions, to help keep people warm. Because they are smaller than 5-foot by 5-foot, they are not regulated by permits program and not affected by burn permit closures.

During burn permit suspensions, there is often a mention that campfires and warming fires are still authorized. A campfire serves various purposes including cooking, warmth, and recreation. A warming fire provides heat only. During burn permit suspensions both are legal, but they are not allowed during burn closures.

By understanding the differences between burn permit suspensions, burn closures, and red flag warnings, we can all play a part in protecting our communities and natural resources from the dangers of wildfires. Stay informed, follow restrictions, and encourage your neighbors to do the same.

You can call 907-761-6312 for an automatic recording about whether there are any burn restrictions. This line is always up-to-date and maintained by Forestry's prevention office.

Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaskan resident with over 25 years of public safety experience and public service. He runs a freelance business, Big Lake Writer, from home in Big Lake that he shares with his wife of 19 years and their three teenage sons.