County judge issues burn ban

Denton County Judge Mary Horn instated a countywide burn restriction that went into effect Sunday.

The burn ban has been issued because of dry weather and the increased potential for uncontrolled wildfires. Over the past weekend, hundreds of acres in northern Denton County suffered several wildfires.

“Compounding the already extreme wildfire threat from dry conditions is the vast amounts of dry grass. Even if Denton County receives appreciable rain in the near future, the wildfire threat will persist. Dead grass does not retain moisture for long and therefore even if we receive rain we can be right back in dangerous wildfire conditions within 24 hrs,” said Fire Chief Jody Gonzalez, Denton County fire marshal. “Citizens should take measures to protect their home by removing unwanted combustible debris and vegetation away from their homes and be sure to keep water hoses ready accessible in the event a small fire starts. Always call 911 early to notify your fire department of any fire to assure a faster response and that complete extinguishment has occurred.”

The mandatory burn ban includes all outdoor burning, including restrictions on outdoor hot work such as welding and cutting torch operations, and the use of combustible materials. The burn ban does not prohibit the use of charcoal or gas patio grills and smokers provided they have a complete and fully enclosed lid that is used at all times and that the area in a five feet diameter surrounding is clear of vegetation and combustibles. Violation of the burn-ban is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.

Jaime Moore, emergency management officer, said the burn ban will be evaluated on a weekly basis.

“There’s no telling when the ban will be lifted. Our situation will change once the fire danger changes,” Moore said. “Unless we have consistent moisture, it could go on and on.”

Moore said it’s not just northern Denton County that has been affected by wildfires. He said all parts of the county have seen smaller wild fires, just not all have been several hundreds of acres.

“Prevention of potential wild land fires is essential to the safety of county residents. Wildfires can be devastating and difficult on everyone, especially farmers and ranchers; wildfires can destroy not only lives and property, but livelihood as well,” Horn said. “With everyone’s help we can make our communities safer places to live and enjoy life.”

Any reports of a violation to the burn ban will come to the fire marshal’s office, which enforces the ban. Moore said the county is working to get the ban into as many forums as possible in order to educate the county.

“We work really hard to put out the message that we are in a severe wild fire situation and that a burn ban is in effect,” Moore said. “If someone causes a wild fire or they know about the burn ban but choose to ignore it, they will get a citation. However, we do take into consideration that the ban just went into effect. We want people to know about it because fire can cause damage to property, homes and can also cost lives.”

For information, contact the Denton County Department of Emergency Services at 940-349-2840.

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