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Mar
15
Written by:
news editor
3/15/2010 1:00 AM
03/15/10 Ohioans are urged to be aware of the state’s outdoor burning regulations and take necessary precautions if they are planning to burn debris.
Wildfire Season Precautions Urged
CHILLICOTHE, OH – Ohioans are urged to be aware of the state’s outdoor burning regulations and take necessary precautions if they are planning to burn debris, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry.
“About 500 wildfires are reported during spring wildfire season burning about 3,000 acres,” said David Lytle, chief of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry. “Almost every wildfire in Ohio is caused by human factors, and they can be easily avoided by understanding outdoor burning regulations and safe burning practices.”
Ohio law states that outdoor burning is prohibited from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during March, April and May. Burning is limited in the spring due to the abundance of dry fuel on the ground before small, grassy fuels green up with moisture.
The Ohio Division of Forestry, through its FireWise program, provides rural homeowners with tips on protecting rural homes and communities. Information can be found at www.ohiodnr.com/forestry and www.firewise.org. Burning regulations and safety measures are also provided, such as using a 55-gallon drum with a weighted screen lid to provide an enclosed incinerator, knowing state and local burning regulations, keeping up with current and future weather conditions, having suppression tools on hand, and contacting your local and knowledgeable local fire department for additional safety considerations.
If a fire does escape control, immediately contact the local fire department. An escaped wildfire is dangerous, even one burning in grass or weeds. Violators of Ohio’s burning regulations are subject to citations and fines. Residents should also check the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s regulations and consult with local fire officials about burning conditions.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
-30-
Smokey Bear says, “Remember, only you can prevent wildfire!”
For further information, contact:
Greg Smith, ODNR Division of Forestry
614. 439. 6297 or 740. 774. 1596 ext 6
Heidi Hetzel-Evans, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860
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