The N.C. Forest Service and the U.S. Forest Service want people in Western North Carolina to be careful with campfires and when burning yard debris because of continuing dry weather in the region. Twenty-three counties are in moderate to extreme drought including Gaston and Clevland.
Fall wildfire season typically lasts from mid-October until mid-December, the time of year when people do a lot of yard work that may include burning leaves and yard debris. These fires sometimes escape and start wildfires. Fireplace ash disposal and vegetation on electrical fences can also be problematic in the fall. Always be sure ashes are dead out, and always dispose of them in a metal container with a cover. As dry as it is in western North Carolina, smokers also need to be careful with cigarette disposal because even the smallest spark can start a wildfire.
There are many factors to consider before burning debris or lighting a campfire. Always check the weather prior to burning, and follow state and local regulations. Have an adequate safe distance from other flammable material, especially wooded areas and flammable material that may lead to houses. With all fires, be sure to tend to it until the debris pile or campfire is completely out
Tips for safe burning
The N.C. Forest Service urges people to follow these tips to protect property and prevent wildfires:
• Consider alternatives to burning. Some types of debris, such as leaves, grass and stubble, may be of more value if they are not burned, but used for mulch instead.
• Check local burning laws. Some communities allow burning only during specified hours. Others forbid it entirely.
• Make sure you have a valid permit. You can obtain a burning permit at any N.C. Forest Service office or authorized permitting agent, or online at ncforestservice.gov.
• Keep an eye on the weather. Don't burn on dry, windy days.
• Local fire officials can recommend a safe way to burn debris. Don't pile vegetation on the ground. Instead, place it in a cleared area and contain it in a screened receptacle, away from overhead branches and wires.
• Household trash should be hauled away to a trash or recycling station. It is illegal to burn anything other than yard debris.
• Be sure you are fully prepared before burning. To control the fire, you will need a hose, bucket, steel rake and a shovel for tossing dirt on the fire. Keep a phone nearby, too.
• Never use kerosene, gasoline, diesel fuel or other flammable liquids to speed debris burning.
• Stay with your fire until it is completely out.
• These same tips hold true for campfires and barbeques as well. Douse burning charcoal briquettes or campfires thoroughly with water. When soaked, stir the coals and soak them again. Be sure they are out cold and carefully feel to be sure they are extinguished. Never dump hot ashes or coals into a wooded area.
• Burning agricultural residue and forestland litter: In addition to the rules above, a fire line should be plowed around the area to be burned. Large fields should be separated into small plots for burning one at a time. Before doing any burning in a wooded area, contact your county ranger, who will weigh all factors, explain them and offer technical advice.
Studies have shown that taking these and other measures can reduce the possibility of wildfires. For more information on ways you can prevent wildfires and loss of property, log onto http://ncforestservice.gov.