According to a statement released today (November 13) by the Hickory Fire Department, the rain over the weekend was not enough to cancel the area’s burning ban, which will remain in effect until further notice.

Along with agencies across the state, the fire department reminds the public that open burning is not allowed. A burning ban has been implemented that covers all open burning, including the burning of leaves, recreational fires, bonfires, and the use of outdoor fireplaces and fire-pits. The burn ban does not apply to cooking fires, such as grills or outdoor cookers.

Due to the conditions of drought and low humidity, the situation is dangerous for any open burning. Under the current weather conditions, brush fires spread faster, are harder to contain, and are far more dangerous than usual, and can have the potential to cause large property loss.

Failure to observe the ban will result in fines or penalties. Persons who observe open burning should call 9-1-1 to report those incidents.