OHIO, (WOWK) – With dry conditions at an all-time high throughout the region, a burn ban has been put into effect for certain areas of Ohio.

Counties included in the Ohio State Fire Marshal’s burn ban include Gallia, Jackson, Meigs, Scioto, and Vinton counties in our region, along with nearby counties of Athens, Hocking, Pike and Ross counties.

This burn ban prohibits all outdoor fires and forbids bonfires, campfires, smoking or outdoor cooking of any kind. All firework displays have also been banned. The Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office says even live fire training events are banned.

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Fire safety is a responsibility we all share,” said Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. “It’s critical that Ohioans understand and appreciate the significant risks associated with fires, especially during the current drought conditions. Together we can protect our communities and environment.”

The Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office says the ban will remain in effect until further notice. Officials say dry grass, shrubs, dead leaves and fallen pine needles are just some examples of plant materials that can fuel wildfires.

According to the Fire Marshal’s Office, even if an area has rain in the forecast, “it will require an extended period of soaking rains to reduce the elevated threat of wildfires throughout the state.”

Other Ohio counties outside of our region that are also impacted by the burn ban include Belmont, Carroll, Fairfield, Fayette, Guernsey, Harrison, Highland, Jefferson, Monroe, Morgan, Muskingum, Perry, Pickaway, Tuscarawas and Washington counties.

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