A statewide burn ban went into effect on February 15, according to the Martinsville Fire & EMS Department.
This law that bans open air burning before 4 p.m. will remain in effect through April 30.
It applies to all open air burning that occurs within 300 feet of woodland, city fire officials said.
In addition, a city ordinance requires all open-air burning be completed by 8 p.m.
The dangers of fires spreading during this timeframe are due to higher winds, lower relative humidity, and extremely dry fuels on the forest floor.
Fire officials urge the use of extreme caution to remove all combustibles around the area to be burned, and to make sure all outdoor fires are attended at all times.
As always, the only materials allowed to be burned are paper, cardboard, leaves, and tree, yard and garden trimmings located on the premises.
For more information on fire safety, please visit our website at martinsville-va.gov, the Virginia Department of Forestry’s website, or call the Martinsville Fire & EMS Department at 276-403-5325.
