08/01/2023
Smith County has issued a burn ban effective today 8-01-23
The Smith County Commissioners Court voted on Tuesday, August 1, to issue a burn ban for the County.
As of Tuesday morning, the Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI) for Smith County was averaging around 632, with the highs in the 700s. The KBDI ranges from 0 to 800 and is used to determine forest fire potential. In the past, Smith County has issued a burn ban when the drought index falls around 700.
“It’s no surprise it’s hot outside and dangerously so,” Smith County Fire Marshal Pual Findley said during his Commissioners Court update. “Looking at the forecast, it most likely will get worse before it gets better.”
With triple digit temperatures forecasted for the next 10 days, along with the expected daily increase to the KBDI, Findley recommended that the Commissioners Court issue the “Order Prohibiting Outdoor Burning.”
“The weather we are now experiencing is the perfect recipe for wildland fires,” Smith County Judge Neal Franklin said. “This ban is an appropriate measure and we will keep a close watch as we move forward.”
The burn ban order is in effect for 90 days, unless conditions improve and the Commissioners Court approve terminating the order early. Significant rainfall in the area will be needed for that to occur.
Fireworks, fire pits or any form of outdoor burning is prohibited.
There are exceptions to the burn ban. People are still allowed to cook food in a grill or smoker that contains all open flames and have enclosed lids. Professional welding operations are allowed but all welders must notify and register with the Fire Marshal’s Office before welding outside and follow specific guidelines.
The order also does not prohibit outdoor burning activities related to public health and safety that are authorized by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, such as firefighter training; public utility, Texas Department of Transportation operations, natural gas pipeline or mining operations; planting or harvesting agricultural crops; or some prescribed burns.
A violation of the burn ban is a Class C Misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $500.
Smith County, as well as area fire departments, will work on placing signs around the County to alert residents about the burn ban.
For more information, please call the Smith County Fire Marshal’s Office at 903-590-2655 or visit www.smith-county.com and click on the red banner at the top of the homepage.
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