Carlton, Lafayette, McMinnville, Newberg, Sheridan, Yamhill fire departments ban open flames

The Carlton, Lafayette, McMinnville, Newberg, Sheridan and Yamhill fire departments have banned all open-flame recreational fires, including backyard fire pits, patio fire pits, propane campfire pits and charcoal barbecues. Propane barbecue grills can still be used.

Other fire departments in the county have not yet issued such bans, but they may as the hot, dry conditions continue. Amity has announced it will prohibit open-flame burning during periods when the National Weather Service issues a "red-flag warning."

The ban, enacted by McMinnville Thursday and other departments today, is in response to high fire danger throughout the county.

Numerous fires have been reported over the past few days, although most have been quickly controlled. However, a fire north of Willamina has spread to an estimated 120 acres, and continues to burn.

The National Weather Service has issued a fire weather watch for Saturday afternoon and evening, due to dry conditions, high temperatures, gusty winds and low humidity.