Burn Ban Enacted
Fayette County Commissioners ordered a burn ban at their meeting last Thursday, July 13.
The order prohibits outdoor burning in the unincorporated areas of the County. Fayette County Emergency Management Director Angela Hahn recommended the ban.
“I realize we’ve had some rain but we don’t have rain any forecasted through the end of the month,” Hahn told Commissioners at the meeting.
Some areas of the County received over an inch of rain two weeks ago. But other areas didn’t receive any.
“We’ve had no rain, maybe a couple of tenths,” said Pct. 3 Commissioner Harvey Berckenhoff, whose area covers the southwest corner of the County around Flatonia.
“I agree with Angela,” said Pct. 4 Commissioner Drew Brossmann. “It’s getting drier and drier. We had a rain for a little while but it hasn’t lasted. Its supposed to be super hot next week, so the little moisture we got will be gone for sure.”
Commissioners voted unanimously to implement the burn ban.
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.