Wildfire danger elevated

Press Release

Vermont Department of Forests, Parks & Recreation

Vermont Division of Fire Safety

Vermont Emergency Management

April 5, 2012

 

 

Wildfire danger elevated – take precautions to prevent fires

 

MONTPELIER, VT – Dry and breezy conditions across Vermont are expected to continue into this weekend which will likely continue the High to Very High Fire Danger in Vermont, according to Vermont Department of Forests, Parks & Recreation.  In addition, if brisk winds in excess of 25 mph are expected, this could lead to Fire Weather Watches or Red Flag Warnings being issued by the National Weather Service as any fires that do occur could spread very rapidly and become unmanageable.

 

State officials and local fire departments remind Vermonters that the increased potential for wildfires necessitates certain precautions by all.  In general, debris burning is the leading cause of wild land fires in Vermont. These fires cause property damage; lost natural resources; and like all fires, can result in a loss of life.  Most people never intend to start a wildfire and can avoid this by choosing a day to burn when fire danger is low.  Persistent dry and windy weather in the state have made grass, brush and leaves susceptible to uncontrolled fires, but common sense and caution by all Vermonters can prevent wildfires.

 

Vermonters can help prevent and prepare for wildfire:

 

• Obey all local and state laws or restrictions on open burning.
• By state law, a “Permit to Kindle Fire” (an open burning permit) MUST be obtained from the Town Forest Fire Warden and is REQUIRED before you start to burn any natural wood or vegetation outdoors. The fire warden will issue a permit if the weather and fuel conditions are favorable for a controlled burn.
• Avoid burning on dry, windy days or when Fire Weather Watches or Red Flag Warnings are issued by the National Weather Service.
• If you can legally and safely burn:  Burn small piles; gradually adding to the fire as it burns down.  Large piles of burning debris generate intense heat capable of carrying burning embers up and into other areas.
• Clear all dry grass and weeds from around your burn area, and around your home and out-buildings.
• Always have tools handy while you burn - including water, a hose, a rake and a shovel.
• If burning a large agricultural area, please check with your local fire department for advice about burning it safely.
• CALL 911 or your local fire department if your burn gets out of control and becomes a wildfire. If you delay calling for help, you may have disastrous results.
• DO NOT attempt to suppress a wildfire, if it cannot be done EASILY with the tools and water you have on hand.
• DO NOT burn household trash. The use of burn barrels is illegal in Vermont.