Fire officials warn that drought conditions increase the risk of fires

Wheeling, W.Va. (WTRF) – The Ohio Valley’s drought conditions bring a higher risk for fires, according to local fire officials.

They said fires can spread more easily, and they are a lot more difficult to control. The Wheeling Fire Department said even though there is no ban on open burning, residents should use extra caution at this time.

“Before you burn, consider the conditions that you have,” Wheeling Fire Department Assistant Chief Deric Jamison said. “Is it too dry to burn? Is it too windy to burn? Is this something that can wait for another day?”

Any small spark can cause a fire in these conditions, Jamison said, like throwing a cigarette into dry grass or having a firework spark hit the lawn. He also said it’s important to never leave a fire unattended and make sure a fire is completely out before walking away.

Fire officials also want to remind residents that burning trash, processed lumber and building materials is always illegal. They said open burning does require a permit throughout the year, but a campfire does not.

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