Burn bans remain in effect in the Pine Belt: What you need to know

PINE BELT, Miss. (WDAM) - Much of the state is still under a burn ban, including the Pine Belt.

According to the Mississippi Forestry Commission, many of the burn bans will stay in effect until further notice.

The August, Miss. Gov. Tate Reeves signed a proclamation initiating a partial statewide burn ban.

Normally, the County Board of Supervisors requests burn bans, and the Mississippi Forestry Commission approves the requests.

Local sheriff’s departments enforce the bans. Any person who knowingly and willfully violates a burning ban is guilty of a misdemeanor. These persons may receive a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500, according to Mississippi code as amended.

Those with exemptions from a burn ban include:

Mississippi Forestry Commission
Certified Burn Managers
County Fire Services
Commercial contractors with heavy construction equipment, providing that said burn meets Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) regulations. Read MDEQ’s open burning regulations on their website
Agricultural field burn
Other

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:

What is Not Allowed During a Burn Ban

Campfires
Bonfires
Fire pits
Fire rings
Burn barrels
Debris burning
Field burning

What is Allowed During a Burn Ban

Propane / Gas grills
Propane / Gas heaters
Charcoal grills

The public is advised to use these items as described by their manufacturer, safely away from combustible materials, and never left unattended. Dispose of them properly after use.

Charcoal grill briquettes are of great concern. After use, always let the coals cool completely and douse them in water before disposing of them in a metal container. The residual ash should be cold to the touch before disposal.

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