The fire danger in San Juan County is now “low.”

With the arrival of fall and the recent rain, the fuel moisture readings have been steadily increasing. They have now reached the point where the fire danger in San Juan County has been moved from “moderate” to “low”. That doesn’t mean that we no longer have to be careful with fire. But, conditions now make it more likely that any fire that occurs will be easier to manage.

Now is the time to be sure that your home’s heaters and fireplace are in good working order and ready for safe use as temperatures cool down.

With the reduction in the fire risk rating, residential and commercial burn permits will become available as of Oct. 1. State law does not allow open burning in Eastsound, Lopez Village and the Town of Friday Harbor. In all other areas of San Juan County, permits will be available from your local fire district and online at www.sjcfirearshal.org.