COLUMBUS, Ohio — The state’s fire marshal has ordered a regional open burning ban after various counties in Ohio were identified as being in extreme or exceptional drought.

What You Need To Know

  • The state’s fire marshal has ordered a regional open burning ban

  • This comes after various counties in Ohio were identified as being in extreme or exceptional drought

  • The ban was ordered on Sept. 6, 2024, and includes various counties in east and southeast Ohio

  • Even if you’re not in an area included in the ban, officials are recommending you still take precautions

The ban was ordered on Sept. 6, 2024, and includes these counties, according to a press release from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources:

 

During the open burn ban, these are some examples of prohibited activities as shared by the ODNR:

  • Starting a fire or keeping it going
  • Smoking (both cigarettes and like devices and the cooking process)
  • Non-electric cooking no matter the source of fuel
  • The use of fireworks
  • Discarding “lighted or smoldering material” such as matches or cigarettes
  • Live fire training
  • Displays/exhibitions using flame effects like sky lanterns or cold spark machines
  • Recreational devices that cause sparks

“Fire safety is a responsibility we all share,” Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon said in the release. “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.”

Even if you’re not in an area included in the ban, officials are recommending you still take precautions.

“All Ohioans, particularly homeowners, farmers, and woodland owners, should be cautious during this dry period,” said Aaron Kloss, ODNR Division of Forestry and Fire Prevention manager, in the release. “Most of the plant materials in Ohio that can fuel wildfires are currently dry and will stay this way until we have significant rainfall. Current dry weather patterns with warm temperatures, low humidities, and wind are increasing the risk of wildland fires in Ohio.”

The ODNR says spring and fall are usually wildfire season, but what we’re seeing right now with the weather “is not typical.” They say warm and dry fall winds mixed with dead leaves and drying plants “create situations conducive to wildfire igniting and spreading.”

“Familiar things like vehicle exhaust pipes or an unattended campfire could quickly ignite dry fuels,” Wayne National Forest Supervisor Lee Stewart said in the release. “We’re asking the public to be careful with outdoor fire. If you’re outdoors this season, please be observant and report smoke or flames to emergency authorities right away. Our fire and law enforcement personnel are ready to serve and respond when needed.”

They’re asking that anyone who might see signs of a wildfire report it immediately to their fire department.

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