Fire Danger: burn bans and restrictions across the region

JOPLIN, Mo. (KOAM) - Across the region there are burn bans and due to the dry conditions. And forecasters say it will remain dry for the next month.

OKLAHOMA

Tuesday, October 8, Monkey Island Fire issued a burn ban effective immediately. Delaware County is under a burn ban. Jay Fire Dept reminded it is a 14-day immediate ban.

Remember local towns might have different restrictions in place. You should always consult your fire department that serves where you live. Oklahoma Forestry Service maintain a map showing counties that are under bans . However all others are under restriction which they do not monitor.

MISSOURI

Joplin Fire Chief Gerald Ezell expresses concern about the potential for grass fires to spread quickly due to current conditions. " Southwest Missouri is experiencing extremely dry conditions with little to no rain in the forecast ," Joplin Fire Dept state.

Keep the following tips in mind if you live in the city limits of Joplin:

1. Do not burn without a burn permit .
2. Ask your local Fire Department for a burn permit when you need to burn brush, and follow the rules to keep your family and neighbors safe.
3. Do not burn yard debris or leaves —the City can pick them up during the leaf pick-up program, which will start in several weeks.
4. Be vigilant around small fires, barbecues, fire pits, etc. to ensure they do not spread. Have a hose ready and keep a close eye on fires because they could grow out of control very fast.

Thank you for doing your part to prevent uncontrolled fires.

McDONALD COUNTY, Mo. - NOEL FIRE

October 7, 2024, from the McDonald County Commissioners. County Wide Burn Ban. McDonald County Commission agreed and voted to issue Order 2024-4, Temporary County-wide Open Burn Ban. EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY and good for 30 days.

"At this time, we have received no rain. Everything is dry. With winds, humidity, and no rain, this is a recipe for very large wildland fires."

- Noel Fire Dept

ARKANSAS

Arkansas Forestry Division have updated their state map with those under burn bans or restricted counties. Generally the entire western half of the state is under a burn ban due to dry conditions that will not be changing.

Benton County Fire Marshall has issued a county-wide burn ban until further notice. Although this ban on open burning does not interfere with outdoor cooking or grilling within unincorporated Benton County, officials urge citizens to use extreme caution when conducting these activities.

Springdale Fire Dept reminded on Monday, October 7, there was a burn ban across NW Arkansas. What is most-likely a discarded cigarette along I-49 burned a barn, threatened numerous homes and slowed I-49 traffic for hours through Benton and Washington counties.

Read more on the Springdale grass/brush fire here in our full article .

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