This spring fire season has been more active than in the past several years, according to Jeanne Wambaugh, district forester, Elk State Forest.
“Warm, sunny and windy days are predicted this week, so please use caution and suspend any burning until the weather is cooler and damper,” said Wambaugh. People are asked to remember to:
- Not burn on windy days.
- Maintain a 100-foot, non-flammable area around the burn area.
- Place a screen on the burn barrel or burn area.
- Place stones or bricks, etc. around the burn area to contain it.
- Keep a bucket filled with water and a hose near the burn area.
- Keep a shovel near the burn area for escaping embers.
- Not leave the fire until it is dead out.
- Keep a phone nearby and know your emergency numbers.
- Be aware that some areas may have burning restrictions. Check out your area.
- Recycle yard waste in your area.
If you would like to contact the bureau for more information, please call the District Office at 814-486-3353. You can visit online at www.dcnr.state.pa.us. Also check out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/elkstateforest.