Kentucky's Spring Wildfire Season is officially underway. Kentuckians are being encouraged to take precautions while dealing with fires.
The season runs through April 30. During this time, burning is prohibited between the daylight hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. in or within 150 feet of any woodland or brushland.
The Division of Forestry responds to more than 1,000 wildfires annually across the state. March and April are typically high wildfire occurrence months. Last year, 517 wildfires occurred during the 10-week Spring Wildfire Hazard Season.
The snow and ice Kentucky received a couple of weeks ago could have an impact on this fire season. Fallen trees and organic debris remain on the ground. As they dry out, they could provide potential fuel for wildfires.
If a fire escapes from the burning of debris, immediately contact the nearest Division of Forestry field office or a local fire department.
Forestry officials encourage Kentuckians to incorporate “Firewise” practices around homes and communities in forested areas. Firewise practices range from creating a defensible space around homes by removing leaves, debris, and firewood to ensuring access for safety personnel and equipment in rural or isolated areas. More ideas to Firewise your home can be found here.
· Report suspicion of arson to local law enforcement or the nearest Kentucky State Police post or call the Target Arson Hotline at 1-800-27-ARSON.
For more information on ways that you can prevent wildfires and loss of property, along with a map of local KDF field offices, visit https://eec.ky.gov/Natural-Resources/Forestry/Pages/default.aspx
