LAWRENCE COUNTY — Despite recent snowfall, Lawrence County is facing a surge in brush and wildland fires, prompting an urgent plea from local emergency officials. Lawrence County Emergency Management and the county’s Volunteer Fire Departments are asking all residents to refrain from open burning immediately.
The region is currently classified under “abnormally dry” conditions. While the ground may seem damp from recent winter weather, the combination of dormant, dry vegetation and unseasonably warm temperatures has created a powder keg for rapid fire spread.
The warning comes after a grueling week for local first responders. Multiple wildland fires have broken out across the county, including two significant fires reported today alone.
Because Lawrence County relies heavily on volunteer firefighters, the frequency of these calls is placing an immense burden on personnel who often leave their primary jobs or families to respond to these emergencies.
“This is putting a huge strain on our volunteers,” Lawrence County Emergency Management stated in a release. “With another warm, sunny day expected tomorrow, we respectfully request that you do no open burning.”
Safe Burning Practices
Fire officials report that most of this week’s blazes were sparked by routine maintenance, such as:
- Burning trash or debris
- Clearing fence rows
- Controlled field burns
Under current conditions, a single gust of wind can carry embers into dry brush, turning a small trash fire into a massive wildland blaze in seconds.
There is relief on the horizon. Weather forecasts indicate a high probability of rain every day next week. Officials hope this sustained moisture will improve ground conditions enough to safely allow open burning to resume soon.
Until then, residents are encouraged to hold off on any outdoor fire activity. Taking this precaution not only protects property but also provides a much-needed reprieve for the men and women serving in the county’s volunteer fire departments.
