DES MOINES – Warmer temperatures combined with strong winds and dry conditions lead to more brush and wild-land fires across the state. These types of fires can pose a serious threat to lives and property.
The National Fire protection Association (NFPA) has reported over 59 million acres have been burned by wildfires in the past decade. While Iowa is not known to have large wildfires like those that regularly affect western states, our state is still prone to dangerous brush fires created by dry conditions, strong winds and low humidity.
To prevent the spread of brush fires and other debris, keep in mind the following:
Check for county burn bans, city restrictions and with the Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) Air Quality before conducting any open burning.
Never burn on dry and windy days.
Have water and tools on hand to extinguish anything that may escape the burn area.
Do NOT burn alone, always have another person with you.
Do NOT leave a fire unattended.
Call 911 immediately if a fire does get out of hand.
If you have questions about outdoor fire safety, contact the Iowa Department of Public
Safety – State Fire Marshal Division at (515) 725-6145
It’s fine to “advise” us, but when they start “telling” us what we can or cannot do on our land, is when I take note. Not sure what these “Red Flag” warnings are…decrees? advisement? A man has the right to burn or not burn as he sees fit on his land, and must be able and willing to accept the consequences. Not everyone is an idiot who must be micromanaged by “authorities”.