DES MOINES – The Iowa Department of Public Safety’s State Fire Marshal Division reports a dozen counties – several in North Iowa – currently under burn bans due to the recent dry weather.
Burn bans are issued by the Iowa DPS’ State Fire Marshal, but are requested and rescinded by county emergency management personnel or fire officials. If you have questions about the burn ban or specific conditions in a certain county, you are encouraged to reach out to the local emergency management authorities or local fire department in the affected counties as they are aware of the conditions and specific reasons for the reasons and implementation of the burn ban in their area.
Iowans are reminded to use extreme caution when their activities involve fire. A burn ban authorized under Iowa Code 100.40 prohibits open burning during extreme emergency conditions.
The only fires allowed during a burn ban are those controlled burns for which a Fire Chief has issued a permit and proper supervision is planned. Small recreational camp fires are permitted if conducted in a fire place of adequate construction like bricks, metal, or screen mesh. Any camp fire not in an outdoor fire place is prohibited.
The State Fire Marshal Division reminds Iowans:
1). Avoid opening burning unless permit has been issued by local Fire Chief
2). Avoid burning on dry or windy days.
3). Place cigarettes and other burning items into proper receptacles.
4). Keep harvesting equipment clean.
For more information, contact your local emergency management staff or fire department.
