Woodstock Fire Department Warns of Hazards From Dry Weather

WOODSTOCK, GA -- The Woodstock Fire Department has seen an increase in the number of calls from residents who want to conduct burning, and are reminding these citizens why they may not be able to perform such a task.

Fire Chief Dave Soumas said the city, as well as other local and state agencies, have seen a spike in the number and severity of brush fires due to the extreme drought conditions and "we are asking our residents to take extra precautions to prevent fires during this drought."

Normally, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division restricts outdoor burning each year between May 1 and Sept. 30 for air quality reasons.

On Oct. 1, the Georgia Forestry Commission routinely begins issuing burn permits on a daily basis through the fall and winter seasons.

However, the commission has not issued any burn permits for the area since the end of September, effectively extending the ban on burning due to the dry conditions.

“While city residents are not required to obtain a burn permit from the state, we follow their lead," Soumas continued. "We do not allow outdoor burning on windy or very dry days with a high fire danger in order to protect the homes and businesses in the city. We also do not permit outdoor burning on overcast or rainy days."

While warming and cooking fires, with size limits of 2 to 3 feet in height and width, are permitted, the Woodstock fire reminds residents that it is always best to monitor the fire continuously and have a hose or shovel nearby.

For more information on outdoor burning and current conditions, visit www.GATREES.org or contact Woodstock’s Fire Marshal and Assistant Fire Chief Jimmy Eley at 770-926-2017.

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