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The Virginia Department of Forestry is reminding everyone that the fall fire season has arrived. From now through November, residents should be extra careful when burning yard debris, or enjoying a campfire or backyard fire pit.
Low humidity and windy conditions, along with dry grasses and fallen leaves, combine this time of year to create favorable conditions for wildfires to spark and spread quickly. During years of dry summers — such as this one — wildfires are even more common.
“Most of Virginia had a very dry summer which causes leaves to fall earlier,” said DOF Chief of Fire and Emergency Response John Miller. “Unfortunately, these factors only improve conditions for wildfires to occur. However, with basic fire safety measures, we can stop most wildfires before they start. It’s just like Smokey Bear says, ‘Only You Can Prevent Wildfires.’” In Virginia, more than 75% of wildfires are human caused, with escaped debris burns being the leading cause. DOF has wildland firefighters assigned to every county across the commonwealth who work with local fire departments to protect people, property and our natural resources. While the statewide 4 p.m. burn law is only in effect in the spring, citizens should be sure to always check with local fire officials in their area for possible regional restrictions or bans.
Take these simple precautions to dramatically reduce the likelihood of a debris burn escaping your control: Avoid burning on dry, windy days; Keep your burn pile small; Have a rake or shovel and water hose on hand; Have a phone ready to call 911 if a fire escapes your control; Stay with your fire until it’s completely out (drown, stir, ensure it’s cool); Consider a “green” alternative to burning yard debris: compost your organic yard waste for your garden or yard.
To learn more about the fall fire season in Virginia, visit DOF’s website and visit Smokey Bear’s website for fire prevention tips (including safe yard debris burning) and videos.
