UPDATE: Worcester County Burn Ban Lifted

Image Courtesy of Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office

UPDATE: Worcester County officials have announced the lifting of burn ban implemented earlier this year, effective immediately.

Officials say the decision follows continued improvements in drought conditions, as reported by the U.S. Drought Monitor, and follows consultation with state and local environmental officials. Recent thunderstorms have recently improved soil moisture and reduced wildfire risk throughout much of the county. While groundwater levels and streamflows continue to recover, Worcester County Fire Marshals say current conditions no longer warrant the temporary restrictions put in place.

Although the burn ban has been lifted, residents are reminded that conditions can still change rapidly. Anyone conducting open burning is urged to do so responsibly and in accordance with Worcester County’s Open Burning Regulations.

Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions when conducting any outdoor burning:

• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Avoid burning on windy days or when weather conditions could cause embers to spread.
• Keep a water source, hose, or fire extinguisher readily available.
• Burn only approved natural vegetation and materials permitted by county regulations.
• Ensure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area.
  

WORCESTER COUNTY, Md. — Worcester County officials are reminding residents that a countywide burn ban remains in effect until further notice as dry conditions continue to increase the risk of wildfires.

According to the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office, the ban prohibits all outdoor burning activities throughout the county. The restrictions include yard debris burning, land-clearing burns, open burning, and the burning of leaves and brush.

Officials say the burn ban is intended to help prevent wildfires and protect lives, property and natural resources from potentially devastating fire conditions.

The Fire Marshal’s Office is urging residents to exercise caution with any ignition source and to avoid activities that could create sparks or open flames.

“One spark can destroy our community,” officials said in a public safety message announcing the continued restrictions.

Residents are encouraged to comply with the burn ban until it is lifted by county officials. Additional information is available through Worcester County government and the Worcester County Fire Marshal’s Office.

This article was originally published on Jun. 13 at 11:46 a.m.