Banner County fire chief imposes countywide fire ban amid extreme drought

Banner County Fire Chief Tim told the Board of Commissioners on June 29 that he had imposed an immediate, countywide fire ban because the county is experiencing extreme drought and unpredictable winds.

"The Banner County Fire Chief has imposed a complete fire ban for Banner County and it will remain in effect until conditions improve," Tim said. The ban, Tim said, covers "all forms of open burning, rubbish or trash burning, bonfires, fireworks, open flames, and any other incendiary source that may cause or contribute to a fire." He also said the ban and a public notice are posted on the county website and shared on county Facebook pages.

The declaration followed the presenter’s summary of drought conditions and consultation with local officials and state fire officials. Tim said the action is intended to protect residents, property and emergency responders and is not meant to prevent celebrations but to reduce fire risk during severe conditions.

The board asked no follow-up questions and accepted the fire chief’s statement. The ban remains in effect until county officials determine conditions have improved.