Fire Danger Advisory Rescinded for 21 Counties

As drought conditions in North Alabama improve with recent beneficial rainfall, the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) is rescinding the Fire Danger Advisory for 21 counties. These counties are Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Fayette, Franklin, Jackson, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Pickens, St. Clair, Walker, and Winston.

While these counties have seen a decrease in drought intensity, the rest of Alabama remains in moderate to extreme drought conditions. The AFC is continuing to monitor the changing weather conditions and is prepared to make further adjustments to the advisory as necessary. When the rest of the state receives adequate rainfall to diminish drought conditions, the advisory will be removed statewide.

The AFC urges anyone conducting outdoor burning to follow safety recommendations, including not leaving a fire unattended until it is out (cold to the touch), having the necessary equipment and personnel to control the fire, and having a garden hose or other water supply on hand for smaller debris burns. The agency also recommends using extreme caution and staying aware of local weather updates because of potential windy conditions this time of year. Any fire more than a quarter-acre in size or within 25 feet of a forested area requires a permit from the AFC. Burn permits may be obtained by calling (800) 392-5679. Anyone who burns a field, grassland, or woodland without a burn permit may be subject to prosecution for committing a Class B misdemeanor.

The Alabama Forestry Commission is the state agency committed to protecting Alabama’s invaluable forest assets as well as its citizens. To report a wildfire, call (800) 392-5679. For more information on the current wildfire situation in the state or any other forestry-related issues, visit the agency website at www.forestry.alabama.gov.