Barbecues and Wood Pellet Smokers Permitted Under New Burn Rules

You've heard of a burn ban that's coming in Yakima County so will it ban the use of BBQ's and smokers? Can we still use and outdoor fireplace? The county-wide burn ban for unincorporated Yakima County starts on June 1.

A REVISED BAN SPELLS OUT EXACTLY WHAT'S ALLOWED

The Yakima County Fire Marshal Doug Werts recently issued a revised burn ban memo spelling out exactly what is banned and what's not banned under the rule. The press release says just like in the past outdoor open burning, including bonfires and recreational fires, or burning vegetation and waste materials, is not allowed. However, under the new revised order charcoal barbeques and wood pellet smokers may be used this spring and summer. The ban expires on September 1.

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THE FIRE MARSHAL SAYS OUTDOOR FIREPLACES ARE ALLOWED DURING THE BAN

“There was misinformation in the original notice that I would like to correct,” says Yakima County Fire Marshal Doug Werts. “Barbeques, including propane, natural gas, and charcoal-fueled, are allowed during the burn ban. Wood pellet barbeques, wood pellet smokers, and outdoor fireplaces are also allowed.” Werts says you can also use portable outdoor devices manufactured for cooking and/or campfires, and patio warmers.

SOME COMMON SENSE IN THE BAN

Werts says his office always wants to balance public safety with common sense. He says the aim is to prevent human caused fires while at the same time allowing people to grill and enjoy thier backyards during the fire season.

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DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT FIREWORKS

The Fire Marshal also says fireworks are prohibited unless permitted in unincorporated Yakima County. For firework regulations within incorporated city and town limits or within the Yakama Nation, please check directly with that jurisdiction.
Agricultural burning is allowed when permitted through the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency (YRCAA). The press release says if you violate the ban you could face a fine of $1,000, arrest, and/or jail time.

LOOK: Here Are 30 Foods That Are Poisonous to Dogs

To prepare yourself for a potential incident, always keep your vet's phone number handy, along with an after-hours clinic you can call in an emergency. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center also has a hotline you can call at (888) 426-4435 for advice.

Even with all of these resources, however, the best cure for food poisoning is preventing it in the first place. To give you an idea of what human foods can be dangerous, Stacker has put together a slideshow of 30 common foods to avoid. Take a look to see if there are any that surprise you.

Gallery Credit: Rachel Cavanaugh