Conditions Ripe For Fires
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture says there is a heightened risk of wildland fire this month in Tennessee. It just so happens that this week is National Fire Prevention Week. Due to the dry conditions and leaf litter that occur during the fall in Tennessee, a debris burn permit is required for leaf and brush pile fires beginning Sunday, October 15. Residents are urged to take appropriate fire safety measures as well. Debris Burn Permits are available at no charge via the MyTN mobile app or online at www.BurnSafeTN.org. You can apply the same day that you plan to burn. Burning without a permit is a class C misdemeanor and punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine. Individuals are legally required to stay with their fire until it is extinguished.
The Department of Agriculture has some tips if you plan to burn./ First, notify your local fire department and neighbors to let them know your plans to burn. Establish wide control lines down to bare mineral soil at least five feet wide around burn piles. Keep fire containment equipment on hand during the fire, things like a rake, shovel, and of course water. Finally, one that is just common sense, don’t burn on a windy day. For additional tips visit www.BurnSafeTN.org.