Ohio's burn ban goes into effect Wednesday

Ohio's biannual burn ban goes into effect on October 1st and will remain in effect until November 30th. 

The biannual ban coincides with Ohio's driest periods of the year, and in the fall season, extremely dry air with low relative humidity levels paired with dry leaves or dry grass and breezy conditions can be a recipe for the spread of wildfires. 

According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, "Ohio Revised Code 1503.18 prohibits most open burning in unincorporated areas in March, April, May, October, and November between 6 am and 6 pm."

Open Burning refers to any set outdoor fire that does not vent into a chimney. Examples include brush piles, fire pits, fire rings, and burn barrels. 

Examples of what not to burn during this time would be burning yard waste, trash, or debris, but grilling or small campfires are permitted at any point during the ban. 

The ODNR adds, "If you choose to burn during unrestricted hours, use a 55-gallon drum with a weighted screen lid to provide an enclosed incinerator."

If a fire gets to a point where it's out of control, call 911 immediately.