BISMARCK, ND - The US National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for high winds and low relative humidity in the Bismarck area. The Red Flag Warning is in effect today from until 10 PM.  A Red Flag Warning indicates critical fire weather conditions where any fire that ignites will spread rapidly and become difficult to control or suppress.

During Red Flag weather conditions, the Bismarck Fire Department strongly recommends the following:

• Refrain from using any outdoor/backyard fire pits, fireplaces, or chimineas.  

• If you choose to use a gas grill, gas fireplace, or pellet smoker, use it on a non-combustible surface and maintain a distance of 15 ft. from combustibles or structures.

Special attention should be paid during the following activities:

• Smoking: Restrict smoking to areas free of combustible materials. Use proper disposal containers.  Make sure that cigarette butts are put out all the way, every time.  Do not dispose butts onto the ground.

• Equipment/Vehicles operating off-road: Those working outdoors should be aware of fire hazards posed by exhaust systems, catalytic converters, safety chains, or any equipment that may produce sparks when operating in off-road areas.

For more information on see the North Dakota Burn Ban Restrictions & Fire Danger Maps page at https://ndresponse.gov/burn-ban-restrictions-fire-danger-maps and the National Weather Service website at https://www.weather.gov/bis/