Backyard chefs give thanks: The ever-shifting winds have blown away a county-wide air quality burn ban — again.

The on-again, off-again Kitsap County burn ban was once again lifted Friday, Aug. 11 after having been reinstated Tuesday, Aug. 8.

Due to recent hot, dry conditions, however, the fire danger level is still quite high, and residents are encouraged to be extra cautious in starting and extinguishing camp and cooking fires.

The weather pattern and the associated air quality improvements are expected to continue into next week.

There are currently no burn bans in effect in Snohomish, Darrington, King, Pierce, Peninsula or south Pierce counties.

On Bainbridge Island, the Bainbridge Island Fire Department notes that recreational fires (those less than 3 feet in diameter and at least 25 feet from buildings and combustibles) are currently allowed, as well as fires in outdoor fireplaces and campfires in approved locations in campgrounds.

Visit www.pscleanair.org/burnban to view the current burn ban status.