Barnwell County has had a rash of fires recently and although the damage has not been deadly, damage to homes and land has occurred.
Just last week, Barnwell County and City firefighters responded to two “suspicious” fires that caused damage to multiple homes. The cause of those fires has not been determined.
This time of year in Barnwell County is known for dry conditions and higher volume of winds which only add fuel to any fire, even those started with good intentions.
Knowing what to do before and during a fire can limit the possibility of a fire from getting out of control.
No matter what causes a fire to get out of control, if it burns or destroys another person’s property, you can be held liable.
In the city of Barnwell, residents who want to burn yard debris must first visit the City Fire Department to get a burn permit.
Elsewhere in the county, residents must call the South Carolina Forestry Commission and report who they are and where they will be burning along with a phone number. Residents must call 1-800-895-7061. The SCFC website, www.state.sc.us/forest, contains useful information as well.
South Carolina law requires that those wishing to burn to clear a firebreak around the burn site have the right equipment available to keep the fire under control. You must also stay with the fire until it is completely safe.
Forest fire danger is usually highest in late winter and early spring (January through mid-April). March is frequently the busiest month for firefighters. South Carolina’s fire season is in the winter because most vegetation is dead or dormant during that time.
To go along with those conditions, Barnwell County is still suffering a moderate drought status.
So whether you decide to burn a pile of yard debris or want to have a bonfire to roast marshmallows, be sure to follow safety procedures including making the proper notifications so your fire will not endanger others or property.