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County burn ban goes into effect
By Dan Eakin, deakin@starlocalnews.com
Collin County Judge Keith Self on Monday signed a prohibited burning order, banning outdoor burning in unincorporated areas of the county for the next 90 days or until further notice.
While the Collin County Commissioners Court will not confirm the order until its regular meeting Monday, the burn ban is in effect immediately.
According to county officials, the burn ban went into effect due to a climbing drought index and low humidity that have created a high risk for grass fires in North Texas. Collin County received only about three inches of rain during July.
Jason Browning, county interim fire marshal, said area fire departments have fought more than 28 grass fires over the last two weeks.
He cautioned that all outdoor burning is prohibited at least for the next 90 days or until the commissioners court or the Texas Forest Service rescinds the ban.
Violators could face heavy fines. Residents who see outdoor burning taking place are asked to call 911.
"The high temperatures and lack of precipitation have created conditions which will readily sustain rapid fire development," Browning said. "In addition to refraining from outdoor burning, residents should use extra caution when engaging in activities which could be potential ignition sources."
He said that smokers should properly extinguish and discard their cigarettes, and that chains on trailers should be secured to be kept from striking the ground before being moved.
He said those living inside a city limits should contact their respective city hall or fire department for specific restrictions regarding burning within their city's boundaries.
Collin County is one of several North Texas counties to announce outdoor burn bans in the past several days. A map showing Texas counties now under an outdoor burn ban is available at www.txforestservice.tamu.edu/.
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