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Controlled Burning Safety Tips

Controlled Burn Safety Instructions

A controlled burn, also known as prescribed burning, is a useful tool for managing vegetation and reducing the risk of wildfires. However, it must be done safely and responsibly. Follow these instructions to ensure a safe and effective controlled burn.

 Please Note:  Controlled burning is not permitted inside the cities of Henderson or Kilgore per their respective city ordinances.

General Safety Tips

  1. Check Local Regulations
    • Always check local regulations before conducting a controlled burn. Permits may be required.
    • Ensure there are no burn bans or restrictions in place.
  2. Notify Authorities
    • Call your local non-emergency dispatch number to inform them of your planned burn.
    • Provide your name, location, date, and time of the burn.
    • Keep a record of your notification and any reference numbers provided.
  3. Choose the Right Conditions
    • Conduct the burn on a calm day with low wind speeds (ideally under 10 mph).
    • Avoid burning during extremely dry conditions.
    • Check the weather forecast to ensure no sudden changes in wind or weather.
  4. Prepare the Area
    • Clear the area around the burn site of any flammable materials.
    • Create firebreaks by mowing, tilling, or wetting down a strip around the burn area.
    • Keep water, shovels, and fire extinguishers nearby for emergency use.
  5. Supervise the Burn
    • Never leave the fire unattended.
    • Have enough people to help control the fire.
    • Monitor the fire’s progress and be ready to extinguish any escaped flames.
  6. Control the Fire
    • Start the fire on the downwind side of the area to be burned.
    • Gradually work your way upwind to control the spread of the fire.
    • Burn small sections at a time to maintain control.
  7. Extinguish the Fire
    • Ensure the fire is completely out before leaving the site.
    • Douse remaining embers with water and stir the ashes.
    • Continue to monitor the area for several hours after the burn.

Post-Burn Actions

  1. Report Completion
    • Inform the local non-emergency dispatch that the burn has been completed.
    • Provide any necessary details about the burn’s success and any issues encountered.
  2. Monitor the Site
    • Check the burn site periodically for any signs of re-ignition.
    • Address any smoldering areas immediately to prevent rekindling.
  3. Follow-Up
    • Document the burn for future reference, including the date, time, weather conditions, and any observations.
    • Evaluate the effectiveness of the burn and plan for any necessary future actions.

Contact Information

Local Non-Emergency Dispatch:

  • Phone: 903-657-3581 - Rusk County Sheriff's Office Dispatch

Emergency Services:

  • In case of an emergency, always call 911.

By following these instructions, you can safely and effectively conduct a controlled burn while minimizing risks to yourself and your community.

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