Public urged to use caution, think safety if plans call for burning outdoors this weekend

RALEIGH — N.C. Forest Service officials urge the public to be cautious with any outdoor burning this weekend. Dry conditions continue to increase fire danger which will be high across the Piedmont and Sandhills for the next several days.

“Around 185 wildfires have burned nearly 415 acres in our Piedmont and Sandhill regions of the state since Nov. 7, with about 64 of those fires in and around Robeson and Cumberland counties,” said David Lane, state forester with the N.C. Forest Service. “In Stokes County, firefighting crews continue suppression and containment work on the Sauratown Mountain Fire, which resulted from an abandoned campfire. Due to conditions, it’s even more important to be prepared and take extra precautions before burning yard debris or enjoying any recreational outdoor fires.”

The N.C. Forest Service offers the following guidelines and tips to help prevent wildfires:

• If you choose to burn, check local burning laws first. Some communities allow burning only during specified hours. Others forbid it entirely.
• Make sure you have a valid permit, if one is required. You can obtain a burn permit at any authorized permitting agent or online at www.ncforestservice.gov/burnpermit.
• Stay informed about the weather and possible weather changes. Postpone outdoor burning during high winds or gusts, or periods of low relative humidity. Even if you have a valid permit, stop burning if strong winds develop.
• Don’t park vehicles on tall dry grass or vegetation. A vehicle’s undercarriage is hot and can start a wildfire.

Contact your local county forest ranger for technical advice and options to help ensure the safety of people, property and the forest. To find contact information for your local NCFS county ranger, visit www.ncforestservice.gov/contacts.

To learn more about fire safety and preventing wildfires and property damage or loss, visit www.ncforestservice.gov. To learn more about actions you can take to prepare your home and property for wildfire, visit www.resistwildfirenc.org.