Area fire chief stresses importance of following burn ban rules

COLUMBUS, Miss (WCBI)- Nearly 70 Mississippi counties are under a burn ban. The current drought conditions range from severe to exceptional across the state. This means it can only take one spark to start a raging wildfire.

“We all know that we have not had a lot of rain and even if we get a little rain, it won’t help out. Not burning outside is what we are asking and requiring right now and hopefully, we can reevaluate the burn ban on November 28,” said Columbus Fire Chief Duane Hughes.

Hughes said it is very important for people to follow the rules to keep everyone safe.

“If you are not following the burn ban, not only are you putting yourself and your property at risk, but you are also putting your neighbor’s property and lives at risk,” said Hughes.

Lowndes County Fire Coordinator Neal Austin said if you are caught, it could cost you.

“This is required through the state that the sheriff department comes with us, so it very well could wind up being a fining issue because of that,” said Austin.

“If you are thinking about burning something please don’t, we rather for you to call us than for you to have to call 911,” said Hughes.

Hughes said to call the fire department if you have any questions about the burn ban.

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