Fire Prevention for the Spring and Fall Months
What you need to know about ODNR’s fire laws before conducting prescribed fires and open burns in Ohio
Each year, there are more than 1,000 wildfires in the state of Ohio. Wildfires in Ohio threaten and cause damage to homes, private property, trees and landscapes. More importantly, lives are placed at risk. Most of these fires are preventable. Most of Ohio’s wildfires are the result of arson and careless open-burning (burning of trash, debris and brush).
Open-burning is particularly dangerous in the spring and fall, when the leaves are on the ground, the grass is not green and the weather is warm, dry and windy. As a result, open burning in Ohio is prohibited in unincorporated areas in March, April, and May, also in October, and November, 6 am to 6 pm. Open burning in incorporated villages and cities is prohibited at all times.
Chimney Fire Safety
Chimney fires are one of the highest areas of origin for residential structure fires in Ohio.
The Chimney Safety Institute of America reports that creosote accumulation is the leading cause of chimney fires. A chimney that is dirty, blocked or is in disrepair can inhibit proper venting of smoke up the flue and can also cause a chimney fire. Nearly all residential fires originating in the chimney are preventable.
An annual chimney inspection by a certified chimney sweep can prevent fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. To keep your home safe from chimney fires follow these guidelines: Chimney Fire Safety
Fire Safety Education
Holmes Fire District #1 is dedicated to the education of the citizens we serve and the prevention of fire. We feel a vital part of our mission is to educate the children in the area, and that through this education we can prevent future fires, and/or loss of life.
Fire Prevention offers a variety of community fire safety programs for various groups, agencies and associations throughout Holmes County. Programs address fire safety at home and in the workplace such as schools, offices, factories and stores. Our Fire Safety Education Bureau works closely with our local public and Amish schools and we are available to make presentations to anyone in the community.
Content Source: National Fire Protection Association and U.S. Fire Administration