With the recent and forecasted cool wet weather, fire districts in Wasco County and the Oregon Department of Forestry have agreed to lift the seasonal burn ban on October 16.  This will allow for burning in barrels and of small debris piles.  Larger slash pile burning is not included in this lifting of the ban.  ODF Fire Managers and the Wasco County Fire Chiefs remind residents that they need to check with local fire districts to ensure that burning is allowed on a given day, and to follow all instructions after obtaining any necessary permits.  Wind is a big factor that can affect the spread of fire from debris piles.  Watch the weather forecasts and ensure you have a fire safe area cleared around your pile with water and tools readily available.  Monitor your pile until it has consumed and is out, as unattended piles can rekindle and spread at a later time without warning.