Check ahead before burning
By Paul Hall on Monday, May 10th, 2021 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
Union County, OR – (Information provided by the Oregon Department of Forestry) Caution is being encouraged with spring burning. We know this is prime time for cleaning up property and conducting small burning operations and we want to encourage landowners to take some time to become educated on current and expected conditions before you burn. When you’re mindful of weather forecasts, including temperature, wind, and humidity it may help you determine if burning is appropriate.
ODF officials are encouraging landowners to heed caution even when the conditions seem conducive to burning, and refer to the following checklist:
• Call your local fire department to see if a burning permit is required. Burning regulations are not the same in all areas.
• Prepare by having a shovel and charged garden hose or other water source at the burn site.
• Find a clear site away from buildings and trees with overhanging branches.
• Clear a circle, at least 10 feet in diameter down to mineral soil, around the pile or incinerator.
• Divide large piles into smaller piles. Smaller piles burn quickly and efficiently and are easier to control.
• Avoid burning during windy conditions. Embers can travel and ignite spot fires nearby.
• Stay with the fire, wetting down the edges to prevent escape, until it is completely out.
• Remember, unattended piles can quickly spread out of control. If your debris burn escapes control, call 911 immediately.
