Warmer weather increases potential

Contact:  Diana Olszowy 502-564-4496

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 30, 2008)--The spring forest fire hazard season officially ends today, but fires continue to keep the Kentucky Division of Forestry busy.  Since Jan. 1, 653 fires have burned 18,717 acres in the state, with nearly one-third of the fires occurring within the last two weeks.

“While these numbers are low compared to previous years, the forecast for warmer, dryer weather for the next couple of weeks has the division concerned about the potential for continued forest fires,” said Leah MacSwords, division director. “Typically, when the weather warms up and the humidity drops, the number of forest fires increases due to an increase in outdoor activities while the fire danger is high.”

Most forest fires (63 percent) in Kentucky are intentionally set.  Citizens who witness suspected arson activity are asked to call the nearest Kentucky State Police post or the Target Arson Hotline at 1-800-27-ARSON.  They can also call the nearest district office of the Kentucky Division of Forestry.  

Outdoor burning can also lead to forest fires.  The division would like to caution citizens about conducting outdoor burning during warm, dry and windy conditions.  Safety precautions should be taken and weather conditions considered before conducting any outdoor burning. Check with your local fire department, the Kentucky Division for Air Quality and the Kentucky Division of Waste Management to ensure compliance with local and other state outdoor burning regulations.