Maryland State Fire Marshal Issues Open Burn Safety Notice |
By Maryland State Fire Marshal | |
September 18, 2019 | |
STATEWIDE, September 18, 2019 - The Office of the State Fire Marshal has seen numerous burn injuries as a result of open air burning this month. State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci would like to remind residents about the necessary steps to reduce their risk of injury while conducting an open air burn. "Burning a large pile of brush is not the same as having a small campfire," said State Fire Marshal Geraci. "The scale of these fires means an increased chance of unintentional spread and flashback, which can cause injury or death. It is paramount that Marylanders who intend to conduct a burn follow the rules and regulations established by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources." When burning brush and other natural debris, you must ensure the following: •There is a natural or constructed fire break at least 10 feet wide around the material to be burned that is free of flammable materials. You should never use an accelerant, such as lighter fluid, gasoline, or diesel fuel, to facilitate a fire. Use of these accelerants will dramatically increase your chance of injury. It also important to wet the ground surrounding the fire, do not burn on windy days or in dry weather, and do not burn near trees, buildings, or other flammable sources. Remember, items such as household trash, tires, roofing material, and treated lumber may not be burned in an open fire. For more information about open air fire safety visit dnr.maryland.gov. |
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