As Temperatures Drop, Burn Ban Continues

As tempting as it may be to have a bonfire as the weather begins to cool off, the Lafayette County Fire Department would like to remind everyone that a burn ban is still in effect.

The ban began at the end of September and was set to expire in early November, but was extended by the Lafayette County Board of Supervisors. Lafayette’s burn ban exists in addition to a partial statewide burn ban announced by Governor Phil Bryant, affecting 72 counties across the state. Drought-like conditions across Mississippi brought on the current burn ban.

“The ban began due to a lack of rain which is the biggest factor, and as far as fire weather is concerned the temp has been up, humidity down, and wind is up which basically creates a tinderbox for wildfires,” said Wes Anderson, Fire Coordinator of the Lafayette County Fire Department.

The local ban is now set to expire on December 5 but can be extended if conditions don’t improve. The partial statewide ban is indefinite and can only be lifted by the governor. Those who violate the burn ban can expect a visit from the fire department, and if it’s deemed that the fire was started intentionally the police will be contacted. A fine ranging from $100-500 is the penalty for anyone caught violating the ban. Anderson encourages people not to violate the ban, not only to avoid penalty but for safety.

“It’s all about life safety and property conservation,” Anderson said. “If a fire starts on dry grass, it’s almost as if someone poured gasoline on it. Once they get going they’re hard to stop; houses can be burnt down, lives can be lost and property can be destroyed. The conditions just aren’t favorable, and it’s really not a good time to burn.”

For more information about the partial statewide burn ban, click here.

Steven Gagliano is a writer for HottyToddy.com. He can be reached at steven.gagliano@hottytoddy.com.

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