As of this writing, the state remains under Governor Jay Inslee’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order and we don’t know when it will be lifted. At NKF&R, we have adapted our practices to keep our personnel and our community as safe as possible from COVID-19. We continue to respond to emergencies, but we’ve temporarily suspended our public events and closed the doors to our facilities. For up-to-date information about the status of our non-emergency public interactions like blood pressure checks and CPR classes, see our webpage at nkfr.org or call us at 360-297-3619.
Fire danger already on the rise
It’s been an unusually dry spring and wildfires are already breaking out across Western Washington. The most common spark for these types of fires is escaped controlled burns. For example, someone’s disposing of natural vegetation using a permitted outdoor fire and sites it too close to other combustibles. Or, someone walks away from the fire before it’s completely out.
Burning questions
While we’re on the topic of outdoor fires, we’ve caught wind of a study recently completed by the Harvard School of Public Health. In it, they say that air pollution makes it harder to recover from COVID-19. We don’t have the authority to ban outdoor burning but we can ask you to consider alternatives to outdoor burning during this time. Learn more about the Harvard study in this Washington State Department of Health blog post: bit.ly/3cmWmK1
Facebook LIVE
We typically spend a lot of time in our district’s three elementary schools and at public events. These activities are some of our favorites. Sadly, the need for social distancing has put a temporary hold on our efforts to reach the community with prevention information. Until we resume our regular operations, we’re hosting live broadcasts on Facebook two to three times each week. Firefighters read bedtime stories, provide safety information, conduct tours and answer your questions. Follow our page to find out the schedule of upcoming events.
Stay Home, Stay Healthy — and help us all Stay Safe!
