Burn Ban Extended

TARKINGTON, October 27, 2010 - On October 26, Liberty County Commissioners Court extended the outdoor burning ban until at least November 9th. ALL outdoor burning is prohibited and subject to a $500 fine.

A lack of adequate rainfall has left East Texas vulnerable to wildfires, and Liberty County is no exception. Our current average Keetch Byram Drought Index is over 650, with some areas of the County over 700 KBDI. The maximum drought index number is 800, and our current levels indicate that we are experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions throughout the County. In addition, the current and forecast fire danger ranges from High to Very High.

TVFD is asking that all residents work together to prevent any further wildfires and reduce the increasing number of nuisance calls related to outdoor burning. Tarkington firefighters are responding to numerous calls for service where the person burning is simply unaware of the current danger. Please remind your neighbors of the burn ban first before calling, so that our firefighters may remain ready to respond in the event of an emergency. However, if the fire is out of control, do not hesitate to call 911. For non-emergency burn ban violations, please call Liberty County Sheriff's Office at (281) 592 - 2584.

TVFD placed nearly 30 burn ban signs around the Prairie on the day the ban went into effect. However, someone has been removing these signs without authorization. DO NOT mistake a sign being removed for the burn ban being lifted. If you know of someone who has removed a sign, please call TVFD at (281) 592 - 7800.

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