Outdoor burning banned in North Franklin
Due to the extreme heat of the summer, North Franklin Township Fire Chief Dave Bane has called for a ban of all outdoor burning in the township.
The ban goes into effect immediately and is expected to be on the agenda for a vote at Tuesday’s meeting of the board of supervisors.
“The total lack of rain has created a dangerous hazard to life and property,” said Bob Sabot, chairman of the board of supervisors and emergency management coordinator. “A fire Saturday afternoon caught a large field on fire and nearly caught the house on fire in the western end of the township.”
The proposed ban includes recreational burning, open pits and trash can burning, and agricultural burning for residents and businesses. Residential and commercial fireworks also are included in the ban.
“There has been little or no rain for weeks and the situation is now considered dangerous,” Sabot said. “No burning period until we get substantial rain. We need to be safe and cautious at this point.”