Fluff poses fire hazard

Pullman Fire Department responds to several cottonwood fluff fires this time of year, especially on College Hill.

From about mid-May to mid-June, cottonwood trees produce fluff that floats on the slightest breeze. This fluff accumulates, up to six inches or more under bushes and in tall grass with dead organic matter. This increases the chance of a fire.

“We’ve had people, without thinking, drop their lighted cigarettes in a pile of fluff and then watch helplessly as the fire takes off through the grass and up a hillside,” Deputy Fire Marshal Tony Nuttman said.

Pullman firefighters are asking...