Sentinel-Echo.com

Local News

July 2, 2012

County issues burn ban

Urges caution with fireworks

By Nita Johnson Staff Writer

LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. — As thousands of acres of Colorado are charred from wildfires, local officials are taking preventative measures to protect Laurel County from similar situations.

Earlier this week, London Mayor Troy Rudder issued a burning ban for the city of London. Laurel County Judge Executive David Westerfield followed suit, issuing an open burning ban during fire hazard periods.

The executive order issued on Tuesday, June 25, determines that the drought conditions caused by high heat and no recent rainfall has placed the county in a fire hazard period.

“Now, therefore, I, David Westerfield, Laurel County Judge Executive, by virtue of the authority vested in me pursuant to KRS 149.401, am banning any and all open burning in Laurel County,” as stated in the order.

The drought situation poses concern for local leaders as the Fourth of July holiday approaches. Westerfield said he had been talking with Rudder concerning the danger of fireworks sparking fires in the area.

“We know that people are going to shoot fireworks and we can’t stop them,” Westerfield said. “But we are trying to get the word out to use caution.”

Westerfield recommended that persons who will be setting off fireworks keep a water hose and/or fire extinguisher nearby in case the sparks ignite grass, weeds or other flammable substances. Wetting the area where the fireworks will be set off and expected to land is another measure Westerfield suggested.

“Pay attention to your surroundings,” he added. “Be aware of the area and don’t set your neighbor’s field or yard on fire. We’re hoping (the recommendations) will help so people will be more cautious. We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun but we do want people to be safe.”



njohnson@sentinel-echo.com

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