Fire danger remains high

The Office of Sheridan County Board of County Commissioners reports the fire danger in Sheridan County remains high despite recent rain, and with hot, dry weather in the forecast, the risk is expected to increase. 

In a release, the Sheridan Commissioners, County Fire Warden, and rural fire department Chiefs remind residents that Partial Fire Restrictions are still in place. They urge everyone to please be cautious with anything that could create sparks and potentially start a fire, especially during hot, dry, and windy conditions. Fires can start from tow chains dragging on the pavement, a vehicle’s hot exhaust over dry grass (even ATVs), carelessness with any burning materials or sparking items.

Some key points of the Partial Fire Restrictions include:

Open Burning: Prohibited outside incorporated cities, though gas and charcoal fires are allowed in enclosed grills. Note that federal lands may have different rules.

15 Feet Clearance: Keep a 15-foot area clear of flammable materials when welding, grinding, using cutting torches, having recreational fires, conducting branding activities, or using burn barrels. Trash or refuse fires are allowed between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. in containers with a spark arrester.

No Fireworks: The use of fireworks and exploding targets is strictly prohibited unless a permit is granted for a supervised public display.

Recreational Fires: Small fires for cooking, warmth, or ceremonies are allowed at residences if there’s a 15-foot clearance around the fire.

Smoking: No restrictions, but spark arrestors or screens on cabin chimneys are advised.

The fire restrictions will remain until cooler, wetter weather arrives in the fall. For more information, including the full resolution and safety guidelines, visit the Sheridan County Fire Protection Districts website here.