PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – Due to prolonged dry conditions and a significant lack of rainfall, Pasco County has issued an immediate Emergency Burn Ban for all areas within the county. The mandatory ban aims to mitigate the sharply increased risk of brush fires that can quickly escalate and threaten lives and property.
County officials announced a burn ban, effective immediately, emphasizing that it will remain in place until conditions improve and the risk of fire subsides. Residents will be notified when open burning can safely resume.
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The emergency order strictly prohibits all outdoor burning and activities that could potentially ignite fires within unincorporated areas of Pasco County. This includes:
- Open burning
- Campfires and bonfires
- Burning of yard waste and garbage
Pasco Fire Rescue is urging residents to exercise extreme caution, highlighting that even seemingly small actions, such as discarding a lit cigarette outdoors, can have severe consequences under the current dry conditions. These actions can easily spark brush fires that can rapidly spread, endangering the community and its infrastructure.
While the burn ban is in effect, outdoor cooking using grills or smokers designed to contain fire, flame, and heat is permitted. However, Pasco Fire Rescue strongly advises residents to ensure that all coals are thoroughly extinguished after cooking.
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The countywide, mandatory Burn Ban encompasses all outdoor burning that has not been specifically authorized by a permit issued by the Florida Forest Service. Individuals planning to conduct any open burning must adhere to all Florida Forest Service permitting regulations. This permitting process ensures that potential risks are carefully evaluated and addressed.
Pasco County officials expressed their gratitude for the community’s cooperation in adhering to the burn ban, underscoring its importance in safeguarding the county.
Residents who witness a violation of the Burn Ban are urged to report it to the Pasco County Emergency Communications Center at 727.847.8102.
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