Burn Bans in Effect for Many Counties to Mitigate Fires and Safeguard Communities

More than 25 counties have put burn bans into effect across Indiana.

Shutterstock photo.

INDIANAPOLIS - Due to dry weather conditions, more than 25 counties put burn bans into effect to prevent the spread of fires and protect life and property. 

Locally, Franklin and Switzerland counties have burn bans in effect. 

County leaders consider several factors when making the decision to issue a burn ban. 

1. Soil conditions
2. Relative humidity 
3. Wind speeds 

Southern Indiana is experiencing moderate drought conditions, while much of the northern part of the state is experiencing abnormally dry conditions, thus indicating a higher risk of the unintentional spread of a fire. 

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security keeps an updated list of the burn bans which can be viewed on the Statewide Burn Ban Status Map. This map will be updated when counties decide to lift the bans. Burn bans can include outdoor burning, campfires and open flame activities.

Background

Restrictions on outdoor burning activities or burn bans can be ordered by any local fire chief for his or her jurisdiction, or may be imposed by the legislative body of a city, town or county. While the Indiana State Fire Marshal does not declare local burn bans, the Fire Marshal supports local efforts to reduce the fire risk escalated by dry weather.