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The Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) joins fire departments throughout the commonwealth to raise awareness about fire safety this spring. Due to weather conditions, available “fuel,” and increased recreational activity, the possibility of wildfires surges this time of year. Earlier this month, several wildfires were contained in western regions of the state.
Virginia has entered the spring fire season which means the 4 p.m. burning law is in effect from Feb. 15 through April 30. The law prohibits burning before 4 p.m. if the fire is within 300 feet of woodlands, brush, or fields with dry grass or other flammable materials.
Although Virginia also has a wildfire season in the fall, more than 60 percent of the commonwealth’s annual average of 700 wildfires occur in the spring, especially in March and April. Rising temperatures, low humidity and windy conditions increase the potential for wildfires and make them harder to extinguish.
Violation of the burning law is a class 3 misdemeanor and punishable with a fine of up to $500. Those who allow a fire to “escape” may be liable for the cost of suppressing a fire and any resulting property damage. To learn more about Virginia’s 4 p.m burning law and fire prevention, visit: https://dof. virginia.gov/wildland-prescribed fire/fire-laws/4-pmburning- law/.
The VDOF says to keep these things in mind this spring: The 4 p.m. burn law applies to any fires not contained within a fireproof device (e.g., campfires, brush piles, warming fires, etc.).
Even when burning after 4 p.m., fires should never be left unattended.
Be cautious of changing weather conditions. Avoid burning during dry and windy conditions.
No fire may be started, and nothing can be added to a fire after midnight.
Have a shovel, rake and charged hose on hand for controlling the fire.
Call 911 if a fire escapes your control.
