The multiagency Wildlife Task Force has lifted the voluntary burn ban it placed over the county on May 22.
Officials from Marion County Fire Rescue are reminding residents who decide to create campfires or burn yard debris to use great caution. Although wildfire conditions have been mitigated, there still is a significant amount of danger any time fire is around.
Be sure to follow the following precautions when it comes to debris and campfires:
- Never let children start fires.
- Never use flammable liquids to get a fire going.
- Maintain a safe distance from the fire.
- Don’t leave a fire unattended.
- Don’t leave a child to “watch over” the fire.
Backyard burns that get out of hand are a leading cause of damaging fires in Florida. Per county ordinance, residents found responsible for fires resulting in any damage may be held liable for the costs associated with suppression operations. A cost that could range from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. Therefore, residents are reminded to monitor weather conditions, clear surrounding areas to bare soil and use appropriate setbacks should they choose to burn.
Helpful guidelines and best practices can be found at www.marioncountyfl.org/FireRescue. The Florida Division of Forestry is responsible for issuing permits for large burns and can be reached at (352) 625-2520.