Fall burning regulations will be in effect Wednesday, October 1, but with dry conditions throughout the state the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry and the Ohio State Fire Marshal urge Ohioans to take precautions now and follow the state’s outdoor burning regulations if they plan to burn debris. State law dictates that outdoor burning is prohibited in unincorporated areas from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. during October and November.

Various areas in the state are seeing abnormally dry and moderate to severe drought conditions that can pose an elevated risk of wildfires. ODNR and the State Fire Marshal encourage anyone thinking about burning to take no chances and be safe.

Residents can take measures to prevent accidental wildfires, including avoiding burning trash and debris, keeping grass trimmed, not discarding cigarettes and other smoking materials outside, and avoiding open cooking fires or campfires. Additionally, farmers should regularly check their equipment for any irregularities that can lead to a brush or crop field fire.

If you are going to burn outdoors, the ODNR Division of Forestry offers these safety tips for burning debris outdoors:

• Know current and future weather conditions
• Have tools and water on hand
• Never leave a debris burn unattended
• Be informed about state and local burning regulations
• Consult the local fire department for additional information and safety considerations
• Consider safe alternatives for debris disposal, such as composting
• If you choose to burn during unrestricted hours, use a 55-gallon drum with a weighted screen lid to provide an enclosed incinerator

Residents should also check the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s open burn regulations prior to any outdoor fire and consult with local fire officials about burning conditions in the area. Food waste, dead animals, and materials containing rubber, grease, asphalt, or petroleum should never be burned. Violators of Ohio’s burning regulations are subject to citations and fines.