Island County Fire Marshal Mark Brown has approved a county-wide burn ban.

The ban goes into effect at 8 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 18., according to a Wednesday news release.

The order prohibits all outdoor burning of natural debris, even for those with an approved permit. Also banned are open fires, including those for cooking, on “improved and unimproved land.” Charcoal and gas barbecues are OK on improved property, but only if they are non-combustible surfaces and at least 10 feet from vegetation.

The ban was enacted due to “atmospheric conditions of reduced moisture levels, low humidity and warmer weather, combined with the reduced availability of fire-fighting resources.” It will remain in effect until further notice, the press release said.

The public is encouraged to report violators to the Island County Sheriff’s Office by calling 911.