OHIO — Despite Ohio's drought conditions improving slightly this week, the Ohio fire marshal announced an extension of the state's burn ban to 24 counties on Friday.

What You Need To Know

  • Residents should check all state and local restrictions amid the recent drought conditions

  • Many areas are still under severe drought conditions, especially in southwest Ohio, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor

  • The Ohio Department of Natural Resources said gusty winds and low humidity can make even the smallest of fires burn out of control

State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon said many parts of Ohio are either in "extreme drought" or "exceptional drought" conditions. Under guidance from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, even if part of a county is those conditions, the whole county must be included in the burn ban.

“The recent rain we have received has been a welcomed sight for many. While it has certainly helped improve drought conditions somewhat in many areas, it has simply not done enough to add much-needed moisture back into our soil in a way that would allow us to safely and responsibly lift the restrictions that have been put in place for those areas that remain within the burn ban boundaries,” said Reardon in a release.

As of Oct. 4, these counties are included in the ban: Athens, Belmont, Carroll, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Gallia, Guernsey, Harrison, Hocking, Jackson, Jefferson, Licking, Madison, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble, Perry, Pickaway, Tuscarawas, Vinton and Washington.

Under the ban, residents can't do any of the following:

  • Any open burning of trash, debris, waste, combustibles, leaf piles or similar vegetation
  • Campfires and bonfires
  • Throwing down or discarding lit or smoldering material, such as matches or cigarettes
  • Using or discharging any type of fireworks
  • Live-fire training events
  • Flame effect-based displays or exhibitions, including sky lanterns and cold spark machines
  • Using spark- or heat-producing devices for recreational purposes

Additionally, the state has fall burning regulations each year. From 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., residents in unincorporated areas can't have an open burn.

Especially with ongoing drought conditions, officials with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources urged Ohioans to use safety precautions, as a fire can quickly get out of control. 

ODNR said if a fire does get out of control, the fire department should be contacted immediately. Some safety tips include:

  • Know current and future weather conditions
  • Have tools and water on hand
  • Never leave a debris burn unattended
  • Be informed about state and local burning regulations
  • Consult the local fire department for additional information and safety considerations

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