County renews burn ban

Donley County Commissioners renewed a “Red Flag” Burn Ban during a called meeting last Wednesday.

The resolution bans outdoor burning on days labeled as a “Red Flag Warning” by the National Weather Service and the Texas Forest Service. No burning may occur within 24 hours of a forecasted Red Flag event. All existing fires should be extinguished 24 hours prior to a Red Flag event.

County Judge Jack Hall on April 1 had issued an emergency executive order banning all outdoor burning, including barbecue grills, in the unincorporated areas of the county. That order is no longer in effect, and the commissioners’ resolution does not include barbecue grills, the judge said.

The Donley County Sheriff’s Department is issued statements from the National Weather Service in Amarillo concerning fire weather and they are updated as needed as fire weather conditions change. Dispatchers have at hand information regarding Fire Weather Watches and Red Flag Warnings to be relayed to the public as needed. This information is also available on the web at http://www.srh.noaa.gov/ama.

All fires must be reported to the Sheriff’s Office prior to ignition. Violation of the burn ban can carry a fine of up to $500.

As dry conditions continue, the Eastern TX Panhandle Chapter of the American Red Cross urges everyone to be cautious with open flames. It only takes a spark for a fire to get started and then driven by winds to create a wildfire.

Prepare your home against wildfire. Create a 30 to 100 ft safety zone around your home. Within this area here are a few steps to take to reduce potential exposure to flames and radiant heat.

Rake leaves, dead limbs and twigs. Clear all flammable vegetation. Remove leaves and rubbish from under structures. Mow grass regularly. Clear a 10 ft area around propane tanks and the barbecue. Place a screen over the grill.

County officials will announce critical information about evacuations and where to go if necessary. Wildfire is a life-threatening event. Follow officials’ directions for your safety.