CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
FRANKFORT — The onset of crisp nights and shorter days heralds the arrival of autumn and the fall wildfire hazard season from Oct. 1 to Dec. 15. During wildfire hazard season, Kentucky law restricts outdoor burning between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. within 150 feet of woodlands or brushlands.
Annually, the Kentucky Division of Forestry addresses over 1,000 wildfires statewide. Data reveals a staggering 99% of these wildfires result from human actions. The KDF indicates that arson is the culprit behind more than half of these incidents, with uncontrolled debris fires being the next leading cause.
“The National Interagency Coordination Center’s Predictive Services are indicating the Kentucky wildfire potential outlook is normal for this fall, but the lack of precipitation in late August and early September has us monitoring the situation,” Division director/state forester Brandon Howard said in a news release. “Our firefighters are trained and ready to quickly and safely respond to wildfires when they occur.”
To help prevent wildfires, the KDF recommends the following precautions:
• Refrain from burning debris during the wildfire hazard seasons, especially under dry and windy circumstances.
• Implement “Firewise” techniques in homes and communities in forested regions. This includes clearing homes of leaves, debris and firewood ensuring easy accessibility for emergency personnel and equipment, especially in remote areas.
• Report any suspicious arson activities to the closest Kentucky State Police post or the Target Arson Hotline at 800-27-ARSON.
• Contact your nearest fire department or the county judge/executive’s office for inquiries about local burning bans.
• Call the Division for Air Quality at 888-BURN-LAW to learn about other specific regulations before burning anything.