North Carolina Forest Service Urges Caution for Outdoor Burning as Fall Wildfire Season Begins
The North Carolina Forest Service is advising the public to exercise extreme caution with outdoor burning as the fall wildfire season commences. Historically, wildfire activity in the state escalates from October through early December due to factors such as falling leaves, dry vegetation, and shifting weather patterns, which can facilitate rapid fire spread. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler emphasized that human activities are responsible for over 99% of wildfires in North Carolina, making individual preventative actions crucial. Residents are encouraged to take specific steps before burning, including checking for burn bans or fire restrictions, avoiding burning on dry or windy days, securing a valid burn permit, clearing flammable materials from burn areas, and keeping fires small. Surry County, in particular, has experienced drought conditions throughout the year, making it especially susceptible to increased fire risk. The Forest Service also reminds the public that burning anything other than n...
