5 fire safety tips to consider this Labor Day Weekend

Whether your Labor Day weekend plans include sitting around a campfire or grilling out, state officials are urging Washingtonians to prioritize fire safety.

Fire departments across the state responded to a total of 4,647 incidents over Labor Day last year, resulting in over $2 million in property loss, according to the State Fire Marshal's Office.

And although the most common incidents last year were rescue and emergency medical services, the Fire Marshal's Office says fire-related events amounted to the largest monetary losses.

To prevent these types of incidents and keep everyone safe, the Fire Marshal's Office asks state residents to:

• Follow local burn bans or fire restrictions, whether you're at home or visiting another part of the state.
• Avoid lighting consumer fireworks. They're illegal in Washington at this time of the year.
• Always use grills outdoors and make sure they're placed far enough away from buildings, decks, and overhanging tree branches. Never leave the grill unattended and keep a fire extinguisher, bucket of water, or garden hose within reach. (Also, regularly clean your grill to prevent grease buildup, which can cause dangerous flare-ups.)
• Make sure your vehicle's exhaust system is functioning properly to avoid sparks hitting dry vegetation. Also, never park on dry grass, because hot exhaust systems can start fires, and avoid operating equipment in dry, grassy areas.
• Secure all trailers, boats, and other recreational equipment before traveling, and make sure no objects, such as chains, drag on the road.