In spring, people do a lot of yard work that often includes burning leaves and yard debris. There are many factors to consider before burning any debris.
The Ellerslie Volunteer Fire Department urges you to adhere to the following tips to protect property and prevent wildfires:
- Consider alternatives to burning. Some yard debris, such as leaves and grass, may be more valuable if composted.
- Check with your county fire marshal’s office for local laws on burning debris. Some communities allow burning only during specified hours; others forbid it entirely.
- Make sure you have an approved burning permit http://www.gatrees.org/online-permits/index.cfm Georgia Forestry Commission’s (Burn Permits): 877-OK2-BURN
- Check the weather. Don’t burn if conditions are dry or windy.
- Only burn natural vegetation from your property. Burning household trash or any other man-made materials is illegal. Trash should be hauled away to a convenience center
- Plan burning for the late afternoon when conditions are typically less windy and more humid.
- If you must burn, be prepared. Use a shovel or hoe to clear a perimeter around the area where you plan to burn.
- Keep fire tools ready. To control the fire, you will need a hose, bucket, a steel rake and a shovel for tossing dirt on the fire.
- Never use flammable liquids such as kerosene, gasoline or diesel fuel to speed burning.
- Stay with your fire until it is completely out.
Sources:
- http://guilford.ces.ncsu.edu/2015/04/spring-fire-season-is-here-be-careful-when-burning-debris/
- http://www.gatrees.org/online-permits/index.cfm