Warren County lifts burn ban; Frederick County’s still in effect
In response to the recent rain, Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services has lifted the burn ban.
Residents are still urged to use caution when performing open air burning activities and to burn only lawful materials.
Open air burning is still prohibited in the Blue Mountain and High Knob communities due to a Warren County Ordinance.
The burn ban was originally put into place the morning of November 16th in response to the extreme atmospheric and drought conditions and the additional smoke in the area from wildfires throughout Virginia and West Virginia which impacted air quality.
Frederick County is still under an open air burn ban.
This prohibits all outdoor fires like bonfires and camp fires.
This does not include barbecue grills, smokers, or any device that uses a chimney or stack.
Violations of burning regulations can result in a Class 1 Misdemeanor which carries a penalty of up to $2,500 and up to a year in jail.
Responsible parties can also be held liable for damages and costs of firefighting operations.
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Warren and Frederick counties issue open air burning ban
Warren County and Frederick County’s Departments of Fire and Rescue issued an open air burning ban.
The decision was in accordance with the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code due to the extreme atmospheric and drought conditions impacting Front Royal, Winchester, Frederick and Warren County.
No one within the county or town limits shall kindle or maintain any open burning during this time.
This includes all bonfires, ceremonial fires, camp fires and barrel fires.
The regulation does not include barbecues, grills, smokers, or any device that emits smoke through a chimney or stack.
Some safety tips mentioned to reduce the chances of fire include the proper discarding of cigarettes, avoiding grass with your vehicle so that the exhaust does not contact dry grass or leaves, and trailers using safety chains should check that they are not dragging on the ground which can create a spark.
The releases also recommend moving anything that will burn away from structures, cutting back or removing dry and dead plants around the home, and notifying the electric company if dead trees or limbs endanger electric wires.
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