Henry County Fire Department Reminds Citizens of Safe Outdoor Burning Practices

As we enter into the last three weeks of outdoor burning, until October, Henry County Fire Department reminds citizens to use safe practices.  The number one cause of wildfires in Georgia is burning debris.  “Many of these wildfires could be prevented if everyone would follow the rules for outdoor burning and NEVER leave their fire unattended,” stated Captain Sabrina Puckett.  Debris burning is caused by humans and humans can prevent wildfires by using safe practices when burning outdoors. 

Firefighters have battled fourteen brush fires throughout the county since April 1, 2012. Some possible contributing factors to the fires were:  dry weather, low humidity, and unsafe outdoor burning practices. “Fortunately, there were no injuries reported at any of the fires,” stated Captain Sabrina Puckett. 

Forecasters are warning that the current dry and gusty weather has created potentially dangerous conditions that could generate additional blazes across the state if citizens are not using extreme caution. In light of the threat, the National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for high fire danger through this evening – and state emergency preparedness leaders are urging residents and community leaders to take certain precautions and stay informed about the possible dangers related to fire. Below are some rules for safe outdoor burning:

• Residential Burning is for natural debris such as tree limbs from storm damage, leaves, and grass cuttings.
• Clearing of lots for building of structures requires a commercial permit.
• No burning of stumps or whole trees.
• No more than one pile 6 x 6 and 5’ high at a time.
• No burning construction/building material, household garbage, tires, paints, roofing materials, plastics, or other materials that produce toxic gases or obnoxious odors.
• No burning before 10:00 a.m. or after dark.
• No burning on Sunday.

Citizens are required to obtain a daily or annual permit through   the   Georgia   Forestry   Commission.   A couple of options for obtaining a residential burning permit are: to call 1-877-OK-2-BURN (1-877-652-2876) or visit an on-line permitting system at www.gatrees.org.  For acreage burns please contact the District Office for a permit, at 770-784-2480. Commercial permits still require a permit from Henry County Fire Department and a fee of $100.00.

Henry County, and the metro Atlanta area, will be under a total outdoor burning ban beginning May 1, 2012.  All outdoor burning will prohibited. The ban is scheduled to be lifted October 1, 2012; however that date is subject to change based on weather conditions.

The State of Georgia Environmental Protection Division mandates this ban. During the time of the ban no residential or commercial burning will be permitted.  Violators will be subject to a fine of up $1,000.00 per day, per violation or 60 days in jail, or both (Henry County Code, Section 3-4-113, page 1710.3).  The Henry County Fire Department strongly urges citizens to comply with this ban and appreciates, in advance, all cooperation concerning this matter. 

For further information, contact Henry County Fire Department @ 770-288-6600 or visit the Georgia Forestry Commission at www.gfc.state.ga.us.

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