spectr17
09-11-2007, 10:53 PM
Drought creates wildfire threat in southern Indiana
9/11/07
Persistent drought conditions in southern Indiana have made the area's dried grass, leaves, timber and row crops a potential tinder box.
Wildfires significantly impact agricultural, timber and other natural resources, and pose a threat to people and their property. The DNR Division of Forestry urges all residents and visitors to take extra prevention precautions.
To assist with prevention, county commissioners have implemented open-burning bans in eight counties: Putnam, Bartholomew, Dearborn, Scott, Washington, Lawrence, Orange and Warrick. Individuals should contact their local fire officials for specific details.
Without significant rainfall, conditions will not improve. The Division of Forestry's fire control headquarters urges all people, both in and out of the restricted areas, to exercise caution and adjust their behavior and activities accordingly.
A few tips:
Catalytic converters in vehicles get very hot; don't park over grass or leaves.
Don't throw cigarettes, ashes, or other smoking materials from your car or on the ground.
Chainsaws, portable generators, all-terrain vehicles and off-road vehicles should have spark arrestors if used near grass.
Farmers harvesting crops should be cautious of overheated machinery, which can start fires quickly.
Homeowners should clear brush and tall grass from around building foundations, and make sure the roof and gutters are clear of leaves and debris.
Barrels used for burning debris should be covered with a mesh screen and be monitored during burning. An ample water supply should be available nearby.
Contact your local fire department before any open burning for restrictions and guidelines.
For more information about preventing wildfires and protecting homes from wildfire call DNR fire headquarters, (765) 342-4701, or your local fire department.
Media Contact:
Marty Benson, (317) 233-3853; cell (317) 696-9812
9/11/07
Persistent drought conditions in southern Indiana have made the area's dried grass, leaves, timber and row crops a potential tinder box.
Wildfires significantly impact agricultural, timber and other natural resources, and pose a threat to people and their property. The DNR Division of Forestry urges all residents and visitors to take extra prevention precautions.
To assist with prevention, county commissioners have implemented open-burning bans in eight counties: Putnam, Bartholomew, Dearborn, Scott, Washington, Lawrence, Orange and Warrick. Individuals should contact their local fire officials for specific details.
Without significant rainfall, conditions will not improve. The Division of Forestry's fire control headquarters urges all people, both in and out of the restricted areas, to exercise caution and adjust their behavior and activities accordingly.
A few tips:
Catalytic converters in vehicles get very hot; don't park over grass or leaves.
Don't throw cigarettes, ashes, or other smoking materials from your car or on the ground.
Chainsaws, portable generators, all-terrain vehicles and off-road vehicles should have spark arrestors if used near grass.
Farmers harvesting crops should be cautious of overheated machinery, which can start fires quickly.
Homeowners should clear brush and tall grass from around building foundations, and make sure the roof and gutters are clear of leaves and debris.
Barrels used for burning debris should be covered with a mesh screen and be monitored during burning. An ample water supply should be available nearby.
Contact your local fire department before any open burning for restrictions and guidelines.
For more information about preventing wildfires and protecting homes from wildfire call DNR fire headquarters, (765) 342-4701, or your local fire department.
Media Contact:
Marty Benson, (317) 233-3853; cell (317) 696-9812