A total fire ban in Island County began July 31.

Island County Sheriff Mark Brown, who doubles as the fire marshal, made the decision after consulting with fire districts and the Northwest Clean Air Agency.

Brown said the combination of reduced moisture levels, low humidity and sunny weather, along with the reduced availability of firefighting resources, increased the risk of fire within the county.

The total ban means all outdoor fires, even those previously approved by a permit, “shall not be kindled, ignited or maintained.”

The ban will remain in effect until further notice.

In addition, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources also issued a fire ban on all land in the state protected by the department.