Lowndes County burn ban caused by local area drought

Due to the drought-induced high fire risk, Lowndes County is under a burn ban effective Sept. 30. A burn ban means there shall be no outdoor burning of any kind. Examples of thing not permitted are campfires, bonfires, fire pits, fire rings, burn barrels, debris burning, fireworks, field burning, or anything with an open flame that produces an ember. Wind can carry floating embers away from the original fire and start a spot fire up to one-half a mile away from the burning area. Use these allowed items instead: gas grills, gas heaters, and charcoal grills are allowed under burn bans. Items must be used as described by their manufacturer's instructions, located safely away from combustible materials, and never left unattended. Charcoal grill briquettes are of great concern if they are not disposed of properly after use. Always let the coals cool completely and douse in water before disposing of them in a metal container. The residual ash should be cold to the touch before disposal. If you have any questions, please contact the CAFB Fire Department at 434-2274. (U.S. Air Force photo by Richard Johnson)