As summer temps climb, county issues burn ban

Citing an “increased risk in fire potential,” the Commissioners Court has voted to issue a burn ban for the unincorporated areas of Travis County. The burn ban will be in effect until Wednesday, Sept. 11, unless the court or the fire marshal elect to lift it. “With moisture levels steadily dropping and not forecasted to rebound in the near future, this burn ban is necessary to ensure public safety,” Travis County Chief Fire Marshal Tony Callaway said in a county news release. Official prescribed burns are not subject to the burn ban, nor are “outdoor welding, cutting or grinding operations and outdoor hot works operations conducted in accordance with the guidelines established by the Travis County Fire Marshal’s Office.” Campfires are not permitted while the ban is in effect; however, barbecuing in county parks and parks managed by the county is allowed, “as long as the fire is within a closable container or a container with a lid.” Officials recommend having water nearby in case of a fire. Read a FAQ about the burn ban or sign up for text messages sent when the status of the ban changes.