A 30-day countywide burn ban for Montgomery County was made effective this past Saturday, November 16, at 12:00 pm. The ban was put into effect following approval by the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners due to the recent drought surrounding the area, which posed an increased risk for fire. 

Fairmount Fire Company Chief Gavin Butler explains the reasoning behind the ban.

“A temporary fire ban is enforced when the risk of wildfire is elevated due to dry conditions, high winds, and increased temperatures. The goal is to minimize human-caused fires during periods when natural conditions make wildfires more likely to spread rapidly. Fire bans are typically enforced through local ordinances, and violators can face fines or other penalties,” Butler explained.

As for when the ban will be lifted, Butler explains the conditions first must improve and will be determined with coordination between the local government and weather and fire experts.

“The ban will be lifted once conditions improve, usually when there has been significant rainfall or when the risk of wildfires decreases. Our local governments work closely with weather experts and other fire agencies to make this determination, and we encourage everyone to stay informed through public updates,” Butler said.

Butler shares exactly how the drought puts the community at risk with the conditions it creates.

“Drought significantly increases the risk of fires because it dries out vegetation, making it highly flammable and much easier ignited by things like improperly discarded cigarettes and floating embers from fire pits. Without adequate moisture, grasses, trees, and shrubs are much more susceptible to ignition. High temperatures and low humidity further exacerbate the situation, creating conditions that allow fires to spread quickly,” Butler explained.

This time of year, seasonal bonfires are also plentiful, and that further adds a risk for fires to catch.

“With the current weather conditions- temperatures dropping- the conditions deceptively appear favorable for fire pits, further increasing the risk of brush fires,” continued Butler.

Butler further shares how to stay safe once outdoor bonfires are allowed again in the township.

“Once a fire ban is lifted, it’s important to follow safety precautions to reduce the risk of accidental fires. Always check with local ordinance to ensure fire pits are within specified regulations. Always keep fire pits small and manageable. Have a water source or fire extinguisher nearby in case the fire gets out of control. Only burn dry, seasoned wood- never leaves, trash, or other materials that can create excessive smoke or sparks. Keep the fire at least 15 to 25 feet away from all structures, trees, or other combustibles. Never leave the fire unattended, and fully extinguish it with water or dirt when you’re done,” Butler said.

However, fire safety isn’t just about keeping bonfires tame. People can practice fire safety through daily small choices that promote prevention and awareness. Butler provides fire safety tips that can keep people safe in their everyday lives, not just in a drought.

“Install smoke detectors in every room of your home, and test them monthly. Change the batteries annually, even if the smoke detectors are hard-wired. Plan an escape route with your family and have a predetermined meeting point outside in the event of a fire. Keep fire extinguishers in the kitchen and garage, and ensure they are in working order. Never leave cooking food unattended, and keep flammable items away from stovetops and heaters. Ensure that trees and bushes around your home are well-trimmed,” Butler shared.

The past month of October represented Fire Prevention Month, but that doesn’t change the fact that fire safety is a round-the-clock concern. Staying fire-safe should be on the radar at all times, with current event issues such as a drought raising concern for increased fire risk.

“Fire safety is critical year-round because fires can happen at any time, regardless of the month or season. While October is Fire Safety Awareness Month, we know that fires don’t follow a calendar. By staying aware and practicing fire safety habits year-round, we can minimize the potential for fire-related incidents and ensure our communities remain safe,” Butler said.

For more information on fire safety, visit Fairmount Fire Company’s website here. For further information on the burn ban, you can visit Lansdale Borough’s website.