With a number of grass fires reported around the area last week, volunteer firefighters want to remind residents a daytime burn ban is in effect. The Kentucky Division of Forestry announced last month the beginning of the forest fire hazard season on February 15, which means it is illegal to burn anything between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m within 150 feet of any woodland or brushland until April 30.
Where local laws allow, burning is permitted from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., as winds and humidity are generally lower. However, fire officials say no one should burn anything unless there is no wind and there is adequate moisture in the air to prevent the spread of fire. Officials note it is always illegal to start a fire any time of the year on or near timberland without taking all reasonable precautions to prevent it from spreading.
Before conducting any outdoor burning, you should check with your local fire department and county government to find out about restrictions and local ordinances. Officials say you should also check the state air quality and state waste management regulations before conducting any outdoor burning. The Division for Air Quality has many outdoor burning restrictions and should be contacted at 502-782-6592.
