Burn Ban is Back

At Friday’s Fayette County Commissioners’ Court Emergency meeting, the Court voted 5 to 0 to institute a burn ban.  

An Order was then signed by County Judge Ed Janecka to restrict outdoor burning.   Residents are warned to refrain from burning anything, including kitchen trash and brush piles.  Dry vegetation serves as ready, highly volatile fuel for wildfires.  Burning trash or brush can provide an ignition source for wildfires, which can spread quickly, destroy homes, and worst of all, endanger lives.

Bans on outdoor burning have proven to be an excellent fire prevention tool.  Keeping a fire from ever starting is the key to preventing wildfires.  The burn ban in Fayette County will remain in effect until conditions improve and fire danger has diminished.  Fire departments will be called to extinguish all fires and violators can be subject to a fine.

Carelessness with other activities can also result in dangerous wildfires.  Residents can help themselves and their local fire departments by taking extra precaution to insure that their actions don’t spark wildfires.

• Use extreme care when using spark producing equipment around dry grass.  

• Electricity energized fences should be kept clear of all grass.

• Lubricate farm equipment frequently to reduce the possibility of producing sparks.

• Be careful when towing.  Loose chains can cause sparks.

 when dragged on the roadway.  Be aware of flat tires as rims can also cause sparks which can ignite grass fires.

• Do not litter.  Trash adds to the fuel load, and glass lying in direct sunlight can start a fire.

• Smokers are advised to dispose of smoking materials properly.  Use ashtrays.  Many wildfires are started by carelessly discarded cigarette butts and matches.

 • Motorists are advised not to drive in or park in tall, dry grass.  Catalytic converters can be a source of ignition.

• Hikers and campers are asked to use burn pits or grill in designated area where, and if, such fire are permitted.

• Dispose of hot coals from barbecue pits by smothering completely with sand or water, and never leave smoldering coals unattended.

• Use extreme caution when using fireworks during a burn ban

Citizens are also asked to use caution when traveling outside Fayette County as our neighbors are experiencing similar fire hazard conditions.