Kearney Volunteer Fire Department Implements Burn Ban Due to Dry Conditions
The Kearney Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD), under the direction of Fire Chief Seth Lunbery, has issued a burn ban for the area until significant moisture is received. This decision was made in response to prevailing dry conditions, warm temperatures, wind, and low relative humidity, which have caused vegetation to dry out rapidly. While a statewide open burning ban already exists for bonfires, outdoor rubbish fires, and land-clearing fires (with permits obtainable from local fire chiefs), the KVFD will not be issuing any open burn permits during this period. The ban aims to protect the lives and property of citizens within the fire district. The use of burn barrels and patio-style fire pits is not affected by this ban, but Chief Lunbery strongly advises against their use and urges extreme caution for any hot work, such as welding, torching, or grinding.