Spring and the Risks of Brushfires And Outdoor Burning Safety Tips
Meteorological Spring is here, the snow has melted, temperatures are rising and there has already been 5 brush fires in the last week. The County Commissioners and Department of Emergency Services would like to remind everyone that open burning of debris at this time of year creates significant hazards to life and property. Current conditions, warmer weather, gusty winds, and lack of new growth makes for perfect tinder to quickly accelerate an open fire to an uncontrolled event. Please keep the following in mind as you consider your spring cleanup burning needs:
Open Burning Safety:
Never use gasoline, kerosene or any other flammable liquid to start a fire because the risk of personal injury is high.
Burn one small pile at a time and slowly add to it. This will help keep the fire from getting out of control. Select a location away from any utility lines.
Fire Must Be Attended Until Extinguished
While the fire is burning, an adult must attend the fire until it is completely extinguished.
Have Fire Control Tools On Hand
Have fire extinguishment materials on hand including a water supply, shovels and rakes. The water supply could be a pressurized water fire extinguisher, a pump can or garden hose, and be sure to test it out before igniting the fire. You do not want to find out that the water is still shut-off at the house faucet or that the hose is cracked when you need it most.
Watch the Wind: Be Prepared to Extinguish All Open Burning
Be prepared to extinguish your fire if the winds pick up or weather changes. Use common sense and don't wait for the fire department to contact you that it has become unsafe to burn. Sudden wind change is how most open burning gets out of control.
Don't Delay a Call For Help
If for some reason, the fire should get out of control, call the fire department immediately. Use the utmost caution to prevent injury to yourself or family members or any damage by fire to your home.
People conducting illegal burning, or who allow a fire to get out of control, may be held liable for costs of extinguishing the fire.
April is the Cruelest Month - April is usually the worst month for brush fires. When the snowpack recedes, before new growth emerges, last year's dead grass, leaves and wood are dangerous tinder. Winds also tend to be stronger and more unpredictable during April.
Prevent Wildfires By Burning During Wet Conditions
Prevent fires from becoming wildland fires by burning early in the season. Wet conditions, hinder the rapid spread of fire on or under the ground. Weather conditions and increased fire danger may lead to many days when burning cannot be allowed to take place.
Alternatives to Open Burning - Open burning releases large amounts of carbon dioxide, other gases, and solid substances directly into the air, which can contribute to respiratory problems. Disposal of natural materials is never as good for the environment as using them again in a different form. Tree limbs, brush and other forestry debris can be chipped or composted into landscaping material.
