Oklahoma’s burn ban applies to Vance residents

Published July 19, 2011
By Airman 1st Class Frank John Casciotta
71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Before firing up the grill remember the burn ban Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin issued July 14 for several counties.

Due to the long drought, 45 counties, including Garfield County where Vance AFB is located, are under the burn ban.

"It could be a lengthy ban, but hopefully not more than one or two months," said Eddy England, the chief of fire emergency services here. "It really depends on how much rain we get."

People on base should be very conscious about any outdoor cooking they might be doing, said England. Considering how dry things are right now, a small spark could result in a wildfire, he added.

The main reason for the ban is to keep people safe, said England. Folks on base should honor the regulations set by the governor, he added.

According to the Oklahoma Forestry Services, outdoor campfires and burn pits are prohibited, but outside grilling is still permitted over a nonflammable surface at least five feet from flammable vegetation.

However, if a person causes a fire, even while following the grilling restrictions, it will be considered an illegal fire and may result in a fine and security forces involvement, said England.