Fire Ban Implemented in Asheville, NC Amid Rising Fire Risks

Fire Ban Announced in Asheville, NC

Hey there, Asheville residents! It looks like the Buncombe County Fire Marshal’s Office has put a hold on open burning throughout our lovely county. If you’re planning to light up a fire in the backyard, you might want to rethink that. The ban goes into effect at noon on Wednesday, December 4, and will last until 9 a.m. on Saturday, December 7. But keep your ears peeled; this ban could stick around longer if conditions don’t improve.

Why the Ban?

Kevin Tipton, the Buncombe County Fire Marshal, made it clear that this decision aims to keep everyone safe. You know, with everything we’ve gone through over the past two months—a series of fires in the area—the last thing we need is to add to that suffering. Tipton emphasized that the community’s safety is the top priority. “Buncombe County has experienced so much loss and so much devastation in the last eight, nine weeks, the last thing we want to do is make it harder on anybody,” he said. Wise words, indeed!

What’s Included in the Ban?

During this burning ban, there will be no open burning allowed. This means you should steer clear of things like bonfires or campfires that are not contained in a legitimate fire pit. But don’t let that bring down your spirit! If you’re thinking about grilling some burgers or roasting marshmallows, you’re in luck. The ban doesn’t apply to fires in a pit, barbecue grill, cooking fires, warming fires, or any chimney devices that are smaller than three feet in diameter.

What About Asheville City Limits?

And just a quick reminder for all our friends in the city: open burning is strictly prohibited within the limits of Asheville. So, if you live in the more urban areas, you’ll want to stick to those smaller grilling options and leave the firewood at home!

Fire Situation in McDowell County

It’s worth mentioning that recently, firefighters have been battling two fires in McDowell County that were sparked by downed power lines. Yikes! We certainly hope that things settle down and residents can breathe a sigh of relief without the smoke and fire drama.

Staying Informed

As we gear up for this temporary ban, it’s a great idea to stay tuned into any changes that might arise. If conditions in the atmosphere shift, the timeout on open burning could be extended. So, keep your eyes and ears open, Asheville! If you’d like to learn more about keeping your home safe during this season, there are many resources and experts available to help you navigate these guidelines.

Conclusion

So there you have it! A friendly reminder to ensure your safety and the safety of our beloved community during this time of heightened caution. While it may be a bummer to skip those backyard bonfires for a little while, we can all do our part to keep Asheville safe and sound. Whether you’re cozying up by a contained flame or just enjoying a good old-fashioned evening with friends, let’s keep it safe and sensible. Have a warm, wonderful winter season ahead!