HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) — The West Virginia Division of Forestry says a mix of brittle leaves and dry ground conditions is the combination of a fire hazard.

“It only takes a little ember, especially as dry as it is now. A spark hitting a leaf somewhere can take off and cause a raging wildfire,” said Charlie Spencer, deputy regional forester with the West Virginia Division of Forestry.

West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice issued a proclamation Monday banning open fires statewide.

This order comes after several bushfires were reported in parts of the Mountain State across our region.

Until circumstances improve with Mother Nature, this order prohibits outdoor burning, including fires set for camping, burning debris, or warming.

“We get asked the question all the time: ‘Can I still burn if I’m careful?’ No, at this time no one needs to burn and the only people who can burn are industrial operations that have received a burning permit from the forestry division,” Spencer said.

Other exemptions provided in the proclamation include:

– Fires for chemical production purposes, where fire is essential to operation.

– Fires for commercial land clearing, such as mining, highway construction, and development: Provided a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry before burning.

– Training fires conducted under the direct control and supervision of qualified instructors at a training center operated by a fire department or governmental entity: Provided that a permit for such training fires is obtained from the Forestry Division before burning.

– Outdoor cooking fires carried out for fundraising events and charitable organizations: provided that a water source capable of extinguishing the fire is present and a permit is obtained from the Division of Forestry before the operation.

– Liquid fuel gas grills, lanterns or liquid fuel gas stoves.

Although the proclamation provides some exemptions, Spencer says as a general rule, avoid burning to protect the environment and yourself.

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