To mitigate the risks posed by the current drought conditions sweeping through significant parts of Ohio, State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon has immediately banned all forms of open burning across two dozen counties. The order, announced yesterday, targets areas classified under "extreme drought" or "exceptional drought" categories by authoritative bodies such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), as WBNS reported.
The prohibition affects a roster of counties, including Athens, Belmont, Carroll, and others, where residents are now restrained from engaging in activities such as lighting fires, smoking in outdoor settings, using fireworks, and other actions that may cause sparks or open flames. The State Fire Marshal's directive is a precautionary measure to prevent wildfires and safeguard the community and environment. "Fire safety is a responsibility we all share," Reardon stated, emphasizing the importance of the cooperative effort in these challenging times, according to an announcement shared by WDTN.
Residents of the affected counties are urged to comply with these seemingly simple but critical regulations to prevent the outbreak and spread of wildfires. Measures that can be adopted include refraining from burning trash, keeping areas clear of excess vegetation, safely disposing of smoking materials, and postponing the use of fireworks. The directive also extends to agricultural practices, where farmers are advised to meticulously inspect their equipment for any potential fire-starting defects, as reported by WDTN.
Should residents spot signs of wildland fires, they must immediately report such instances to their local fire departments. The current ban is subject to change, potentially including additional counties if conditions deteriorate further. This is an ongoing situation, and the State Fire Marshal's office will continue to monitor drought conditions and assess the resulting fire hazards in the region. With the collective heeding of these precautions, Ohioans play a crucial role in protecting their state during this period of susceptibility to fire-related disasters.
