A temporary burn ban has once again been implemented after recent reports of grass and field fires and a notice of elevated fire danger.
The Johnson County Board of Commissioners has declared another temporary burn ban effective Monday through midnight Oct. 14. The ban comes as the county continues to be at risk for widespread fire hazards because of “abnormally dry” and “moderate drought” conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
The National Weather Service issued a notice of elevated fire danger over the weekend because of drying surface vegetation and low humidity. There is also little chance of rain in the coming days, NWS reports. During the weekend and Monday morning, the Johnson County Emergency Management Director Stephanie Sichting received multiple reports of grass and field fires, the proclamation says.
Prohibited activities during the ban include open burning of any kind using wood or any other combustible matter, open burning of any kind of debris such as timber, vegetation, building constructions waste or otherwise and fireworks subject to Indiana Code.
Cooking grills fueled by charcoal briquettes or propane gas are permitted but charcoal from permitted grills should not be removed until the charcoal has been thoroughly extinguished.
Campfires in Johnson County Parks are also not permitted, but the campground is still open.
The commissioners previously rescinded the burn ban on Oct. 3 because the remnants of Hurricane Helene lessened drought conditions enough to lift the burn ban. However, the commissioners cautioned the public the burn ban would come back if there wasn’t significant rainfall soon. The burn ban could be extended if conditions merit it.
According to the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Johnson County will be one of six Indiana counties with a burn ban in effect as of Oct. 7.
