Denton County judge issues mandatory burn ban

by Heather M. Goodwin of Star Local News

In order for the burn ban to be lifted, the county would have to see consistent and timely rain.

On Wednesday, Denton County officials initiated a burn ban due to dry weather and an increased potential for uncontrolled wildfires.

"For several months we've been watching the Keetch Byram Drought Index (KBDI). It has been steadily decreasing over that time. The KBDI measures how much moisture is in the soil. We had a lot of good spring rain, and it was cooler, but now that those grasses are drying out we have an increased fire danger," said Jamie Moore, emergency management officer. "Now we're experiencing almost daily fires. We had a whole lot more growth than last year, and that creates a greater potential for wild fires."

Moore said soil typically starts drying out in July, and the summer fire season usually begins in either August or July. He said the county is on track with where it normally is, but there is a lot more fuel load (anything that burns, such as grass) than last year. He said if the area gets rain throughout the summer, it can help minimize the potential for fires. In 2011, the county was under a burn ban beginning July 1.

The mandatory burn ban restricts all outdoor burning, including outdoor hot work (welding, grinding, and cutting torch operations) and the use of combustible materials. Violation of the burn ban is a class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $500. Charcoal or gas patio grills and smokers are allowed provided they have a complete and fully enclosed lid, used at all times and that the area in a 5 feet diameter surrounding is clear of vegetation and combustibles.

Denton County joined 108 other counties with similar restrictions.

"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 readily accessible in the event a small fire starts," said Denton County Fire Marshal Chief Jody Gonzalez. "Always call 911 early to notify your fire department of any fire to assure a prompt response and that complete extinguishment has occurred."

Moore said Denton County officials are very active in enforcing burn bans.

"We partner with all the county fire departments to help enforce the ban. We also try to be active in public education, but we are very active in enforcement," Moore said. "We'll also seek out and enforce tickets for people throwing cigarettes out the window, which is a big fire hazard, especially during a burn ban."

Moore said in order for the burn ban to be lifted, the county would have to see consistent and timely rain.

"Just because we might get two inches of rain doesn't mean the threat is lifted. You still have the dead, dry grass that's not absorbing moisture and grass causes rapid spread of fires," Moore said. "It has to rain every three to four days to really minimize the fire danger."

Moore said any resident who sees something regarding a violation of the burn ban or unsafe conditions is encouraged to call the Denton County Department of Emergency Services at 940-349-2840.