Custer County South Dakota Emergency Management

09/04/2026

09/04/2026

📣 September is National Preparedness Month!

When you hear the word "evacuation", wildfire may be the first thing that comes to mind. But evacuations can happen for many reasons.

🌊 Flash flooding
☣️ Hazardous materials incidents
🚨 Public safety emergencies
⚡ Infrastructure emergencies
🔥 Wildfires
…and other hazards can all create situations where you may need to leave an area for your safety.

The situations may be different, but the need to be prepared is the same.

That's why Ready, Set, Go! isn't just about wildfire. No matter the hazard, make sure you are READY, to Get SET, to GO Now!

08/14/2026

!!UPDATE ON CUSTER COUNTY SD BURN BAN!!
The Custer County Burn Ban has not been rescinded at this time!
It seems that an unknown little bird has started the rumor that the county has rescinded the Countywide Burn Ban.
We Have Not!
We will only rescind the Burn Ban after consulting with fire agencies and departments to ensure the best decision is made in the intrest of public safety.
When the ban is rescinded, it will be posted on the Custer County website, through local news media and on Official Custer County Social Media Accounts.

08/12/2026

Heads up, everyone!
Scattered thunderstorms are developing and moving eastward into the Black Hills/western South Dakota. These storms will grow and bring a threat of large to very large hail and severe wind gusts

07/31/2026

07/30/2026

Vote for a great group of volunteers!

Five incredible nonprofits were selected as finalists, and the public will now vote for the winner of the new Defender 130. View the finalists and vote now through October 4, 2023.

07/24/2026

More Important information for everyone!!

The Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands have issued a forest‑wide fire ban due to ongoing drought conditions and an elevated risk of wildfire. The ban applies to Nebraska National Forests at Bessey and Pine Ridge Ranger Districts, Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest, as well as the Oglala, Buffalo Gap, and Fort Pierre National Grasslands.

07/24/2026

!!IMPORTANT INFORMATION!!
In addition to the Custer County Burn Ban, the US Forest Service will also be implementing Stage 2 Fire Restrictions on Monday, July 27th.

🔥 Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in Effect — Stay Safe & Compliant

Residents and visitors: Stage 2 fire restrictions will go into effect across the Black Hills National Forest on Monday, July 27th due to persistent severe fire weather and extended drought.

What’s Prohibited:
Open fires: No campfires, charcoal barbecues, grills, or stoves unless using a device fueled by liquid or gas in a cleared area within 3 feet of the device.

Smoking: Only allowed in enclosed vehicles/buildings; no outdoor smoking.

Welding/torches: No open-flame torches or acetylene use.

Explosives: No use or possession.

Off-road travel: No motorized vehicles off established roads/trails.

What’s Allowed:
Stoves, grills, and lanterns fueled by propane or other LPG meeting manufacturer safety specs.

Motor vehicle travel on Forest Service Roads and Trails.

Hiking, biking, and walking remain permitted.

Why This Matters:
These restrictions are in place to protect public safety and natural resources. Violations can result in fines up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, plus possible jail time.

Safety Reminders:
Secure chains, check tire pressure, and maintain brakes before travel.

Report any fire immediately at 9-1-1

Follow official updates on Black Hills National Forest’s website https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/blackhills/alerts or call (605) 673‑9200.

Stay alert, follow the rules, and help prevent wildfires.

07/24/2026

!! IMPORTANT NOTICE!!
The Custer County Commission met in a Special Meeting this morning and voted to approve a Countywide Burn Ban.
The Ban will go into effect at 12:01 AM on Monday, July 27th. We delayed implementing the ban to better inform the public, as well as businesses and agencies that will be affected by the Burn Ban. The resolution, as well as the county fire regulations page, may also be viewed at the Custer County website. https://www.custercountysd.com

07/15/2026

Too good not to share!

07.07.2026
Meade County South Dakota

Hey, Meade County!

The holiday weekend is behind us, and we're happy to report that while we celebrated the 250th Anniversary of the United States, we didn't burn down the county in the process.

We've had several people ask how many fire-related calls we responded to over the holiday weekend. Here are the final numbers from our dispatch center, July 1 through July 5:
17 grassland fires
12 reports of smoke
2 trash fires
1 vehicle fire

Overall, that's a job well done, Meade County. Thank you for doing your part to help keep our communities safe. No numbers on missing fingers....

Unfortunately, the dry conditions continue to worsen, and the risk of a significant wildfire remains very real. Please continue to observe the Meade County Fire Ban, use good judgment, and help ensure you don't become part of the problem.

And finally...for those who are always wondering what's happening when you hear the sirens, here's a little cheat sheet to help explain what you're seeing and hearing.

Be Safe Meade County!!