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May 25, 2005
Controlled burn moratorium begins June 3PVT There are three reasons for the moratorium on controlled burns, according to Fire-Rescue volunteer Jack Jenkins. The first is that the federal agencies have already restricted burning. "We kind of coat-tail on them," Jenkins said. The second is because of high temperatures, low humidity and wind. When the temperature climbs to 100 degrees and the humidity drops into single digits, Jenkins said, the risk of out of control burns becomes greater. The final reason is the numerous calls Fire-Rescue has been getting about "runaway" burns. That's when a controlled burn gets away from the owner, Jenkins said. Fire-Rescue is closing the burn desk in the best interest of the public, not just for the sake of closing down. "We don't think it's safe for you to burn," Jenkins said. The burn desk is closing a little earlier this year, due to heightened danger in this fire season. On average, burn permits usually cease by the second or third week of June. Burning should reopen by mid-November, Jenkins said, "But nothing's firm." Residents should be aware that this year's burn season could prove to be one of the worst in years due to a much wetter than average winter and the subsequent dense brush growth. High temperatures and dry weather have already turned much of the desert floor into a fiery disaster waiting to happen. Also, residents should take the effort to clear weeds and other brush from their homes. Look in Friday's edition for more helpful hints on how to stay safe this fire season. |
