Multiple Mississippi counties are currently under a burn ban as the summer heat and dryness continue to elevate the risk of blazes breaking out.
According to the Mississippi Forestry Commission, residents in Adams, Carroll, Clay, Franklin, Montgomery, Noxubee, and Winston counties are prohibited from conducting any outdoor burning unless controlled by state authorities.
Anything with an open flame that produces an ember is not allowed during a burn ban. The wind can carry floating embers away from the original fire and start a spot fire up to one-half mile away from the burning area. This includes:
- Campfires
- Bonfires
- Fire pits
- Fire rings
- Burn barrels
- Debris burning
- Field burning
Propane or gas-powered grills and heaters as well as charcoal grills are permitted to be utilized. The sheriff’s departments in each county are tasked with enforcing the burn bans. Anyone who knowingly and willfully violates the order is guilty of a misdemeanor and can receive a fine of up to $500.
More information on when the burn bans are anticipated to be lifted can be found here.
