By Vanessa Overholser - Staff Writer
Rowan residents are encouraged to be cautious when burning leaves and other items during the Fire Hazard Season. Forestry officials urge folks to be careful and follow forestry fire hazard guidelines when burning objects.
“We’ve had a few fires this week. They’re all under control,” said Tim Justice, district ranger for the Kentucky Division of Forestry. “The fire hazard has been dangerous this weekend because of some dry conditions. This makes 14 days we’ve not had any rain. It’s gotten drier each day. We had one fire in Morgan and Boyd counties and there was one in Fleming County that burned five acres on Friday.”
Justice said the biggest complaint his department has been receiving is burning leaves.
“A lot of people like to burn leaves,” Justice said. “If the wind picks up, the fire can get out of control really fast. I suggest they have a water hose near in case the fire gets out of control.”
People need to be reminded that the Fire Hazard Season is still in effect and so are the fire hazard guidelines.
“The State Fire Hazard Season is from Oct.1 to Dec. 15. The burning laws are in effect at this time,” he said. “One state fire law is that you can’t burn leaves or anything near forest areas. You have to be 150 feet away from the woods and any other fire-causing agents. You can burn items from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. but you have to be close to the fire and monitor it.”
Keep safety in mind when burning on windy days.
“Even though the laws say you can burn within the guidelines, I recommend that if the wind is blowing, do not burn anything,” he said. “Try not to burn leaves in large piles because the fire can get out of control fast.”
Justice said individuals should not try to extinguish an out-of-control fire without assistance.
“If something happens and fire gets out of control for any reason, call your local fire department and us immediately for help,” he said.
Everyone needs to understand that fire laws will be enforced, Justice added.
“We do patrol,” he said. “If someone does let a fire escape, they will be responsible for the cost of suppressing the fire and a big fine.”
The cost of fines for out-of-control fires depends on the size of the fire and the damage done by the fire.
“Fines can cost from $1,000 or more,” Justice said. “If the fire damages someone else’s property, they will be liable for the cost of that damage too.”
For more information on forest fire safety or emergencies contact the Division of Forestry at 1-800-866-0052.
