🚨 County-Wide Burn Ban in Effect 🚨 Effective Immediately | January 5, 2025 Due to prolonged dry conditions and extreme fire danger, the McClain County Commissioners have issued a county-wide burn ban, effective immediately. What’s prohibited: 🔥 Burning of grass, trash, campfires, or bonfires 🔥 Any outdoor burning activity Penalties for violations: • Misdemeanor charge • Up to $500 fine • Up to 1 year imprisonment ⏱️ The burn ban will remain in effect for up to 14 days. If conditions remain dangerous, additional resolutions may be issued. Permitted with restrictions: ✔️ LPG, natural gas, and charcoal grills • Must be over a non-flammable surface • Must be at least 5 feet from flammable vegetation Exemptions (with safety requirements): • Road construction equipment using propane (water pumper encouraged nearby) • Welding and cutting torches when: – Conducted over a non-combustible surface – Wind speeds are below 20 mph – A fire watcher (not the welder) is present with pressurized water or a fire extinguisher • Oil and gas vents and flares when elevated above vegetation • Fire training exercises within refinery boundaries ❌ Campfires and outdoor cooking fires are NOT permitted. ❌ Sludge pits are covered under the ban and must not be burned. Please help keep Newcastle and McClain County safe by following the burn ban and using extreme caution during this period.