Ohio Fire Marshal issues ban on open burning
In response to the extremely dry conditions in various areas of the state, Ohio Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon has ordered a regional ban on open burning effective immediately.
The ban includes the following Ohio counties: Highland, Athens, Belmont, Carroll, Fairfield, Fayette, Gallia, Guernsey, Harrison, Hocking, Jackson, Jefferson, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Muskingum, Perry, Pickaway, Pike, Ross, Scioto, Tuscarawas, Vinton and Washington.
Residents can take measures to prevent accidental wildfires including, avoiding burning trash and debris, keeping grass trimmed, not discarding cigarettes and other smoking materials outside, postponing fireworks, and avoiding open cooking fires or campfires. Additionally, farmers should regularly check their equipment for any irregularities that can lead to a brush or crop field fire.
Anyone who sees any signs of wildfire should call their local fire department immediately to report it.
Quetions? Call the Highland County Emergency Management Agency at (937) 393-5880.