Tennessee Observes National Fire Prevention Week by Reminding Citizens to Burn Safe
NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry and the state Fire Marshal’s Office are observing National Fire Prevention Week starting October 4, by reminding homeowners to follow simple safety practices to prevent forest fires. The official start of forest fire season in Tennessee is October 15.
“Despite the recent wet weather experienced in many parts of the state, fires are still a real threat,” said state forester Steve Scott. “It is still important that citizens call for a burning permit and follow outdoor burning safety recommendations.”
Activities requiring a burning permit include unconfined outdoor burning of brush and leaves, untreated wood waste and burning to clear land. Burning permits are required in most of the state between October 15 and May 15.
Burning permits are free of charge and may be obtained in advance for weekends and holidays. Permit holders should also check for other restrictions in their locale. Citizens can apply for burning permits by calling their local Division of Forestry office between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Visit www.BurnSafeTN.org for a directory of state Forestry Division offices by county and fire safety tips.
Last year 16 homes across the state were lost and over 500 were threatened due to wildland fire. Homeowners living in forested communities can take steps to protect themselves and their property. Keeping gutters and rooftops free of debris, maintaining at least 2 to 5 feet of none flammable material next to the foundation of the home and clearing away flammable brush at least 30 feet from the house are just a few simple examples of what homeowners can do.
Wildfires are occasionally started by out of control house fires. The state Fire Marshal’s Office is warning citizens to also be aware of fire hazards in their home.
“Tennessee occupies an undesirable ranking in the country for fire deaths. Falling asleep while smoking in bed or in a comfortable chair remains a significant cause of fire deaths in Tennessee,” says Department of Commerce and Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Leslie A. Newman. “If you smoke, make sure your home’s smoke detectors are functioning properly.”
Escaped debris burns are the leading cause of wildfires. Burning without a permit is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine not to exceed $50. Wildfires caused by arson are a class C felony punishable by three to 15 years in prison and up to $10,000 fines. Anyone with information about suspected arson activity should call the state Fire Marshal’s Arson Hotline toll-free at 1-800-762-3017.